When... Distribution Centre

The When… Distribution Centre seeks to provide brand new clothing and household equipment to those in most need across the city of Stoke on Trent, nationally and internationally. Goods are received through donation from companies such as Ethel Austin and are then redistributed. Ethel Austin have donated a significantly large amount of stock for which we are incredibly grateful for.

Upon arrival at the When... Distribution Centre, all goods are processed and stored. Needs are identified through referrals, which are received from both individuals and organisations such as, schools, churches, children’s centres, NHS, adult services, children’s services, teenage mother and baby units, women’s safe houses etc. The appropriate goods for each referral are then collected and distributed to the individuals and organisations free of charge.

Since opening in October 2008, When... has received and met the needs of over 530 referrals. Originally located in Joiners Square, Hanley, When... has recently relocated to a modern industrial unit on Fenton Industrial Estate, Stoke on Trent. Moving locations has enabled When... to increase in efficiency of operation. In conjunction with the move we have also received a racking system free of charge from Kee Safety Ltd. This generous donation has significantly helped us meet the increasing number of referrals that we are receiving each week.

The beneficiaries include those who are homeless, living in temporary accommodation or street dwellers, those who are living in the areas of deprivation within the city and those who are escaping domestic violence.

Achievements

When... has met the needs of well over five hundred referrals.

Two truck loads of goods have been shipped over to Romania.

A van load of goods has been sent to Mustardtree in Manchester.