The Manchester charity that has helped 21,000 children in need to break the cycle of poverty

Wood Street Mission has provided over 21,000 children with essential school uniforms and supplies through its transformative Smart Start initiative, enabling them to begin the academic year equipped and ready to thrive.

Wood Street Mission

The Smart Start campaign, a core project of Wood Street Mission, ensures that children from low-income families can attend school feeling comfortable and included, thanks to brand-new uniforms, coats, and stationery.

By collaborating with local schools, health professionals, and social workers, the charity identifies families in need and provides direct support that empowers children to focus on their education rather than their circumstances.

“A lifeline for families facing hardship”

This initiative has been a lifeline for families facing financial hardship, with more than 2,300 children benefiting from the campaign just last year.

The total number of children supported since the program began has now surpassed 21,000, showcasing the charity’s ongoing commitment to breaking the cycle of poverty through education.

Des Lynch, CEO of Wood Street

“Education is the key to a brighter future, and every child deserves to feel like they belong in the classroom,” said Des Lynch, CEO of Wood Street Mission.

“By giving children the tools they need to succeed—starting with something as simple as a new uniform—we’re helping to open doors to better opportunities.”

With an estimated 90,000 children living in poverty across Manchester and Salford, the need for support continues to grow.

The charity is calling on the community to come together to help meet the increasing demand for assistance as the new school year approaches.

Wood Street Mission’s Smart Start initiative runs year-round to accommodate the rising number of families struggling with the cost of school essentials.

Through a partnership with local uniform supplier David Luke, new uniforms are prepared and delivered directly to families, ensuring children receive high-quality clothing that helps them fit in at school.

“We’re proud to have supported over 14,000 children through Smart Start“

Kathryn Shuttleworth, Chief Executive at David Luke, reflected on the collaboration: “We’re proud to have supported over 14,000 children through Smart Start.

“Seeing the confidence a new uniform can bring to a child is incredibly rewarding, and we’re honoured to continue partnering with Wood Street Mission to make a difference.”

Schools throughout Manchester and Salford can refer families to Wood Street Mission’s services, which include not only Smart Start but also Family Basics, a program providing essential household items.

St Kentigern’s RC Primary School in Fallowfield

At St Kentigern’s RC Primary School in Fallowfield, staff have seen firsthand the positive impact of the charity’s work on students and families.

“Wood Street Mission has been a lifeline for so many of our families,” said Sandra McCormack, Pastoral Care Assistant at St Kentigern’s Primary School.

“A new uniform makes all the difference to a child’s self-esteem, allowing them to feel just like their peers and fully engage in their learning.”

As Wood Street Mission prepares for the upcoming academic year, it is appealing to local residents, businesses, and community groups to support its efforts through donations and fundraising.

Every contribution helps ensure that children can start the school year on the right foot, equipped with not just the essentials, but also the confidence to succeed.

“The relief parents feel when they know their children won’t feel out of place at school is immense,” added Des.

“While we hope for a future where our services are no longer needed, for now, we remain committed to helping as many families as we can—and we can’t do it without the community’s support.”

To find out how to get involved with Smart Start and support Wood Street Mission’s efforts, visit their website by clicking here