arc Shopping Centre, in Bury St Edmunds, donates thousands to Gatehouse in Dettingen Way

The chief executive of Gatehouse said she felt ‘overwhelmed’ by the amount of money the arc Shopping Centre, in Bury St Edmunds, had raised for the charity.

Recently a team from the arc handed over a £5,033 cheque to Gatehouse, raised at events during 2023 and into 2024.

The shopping centre also supported the food bank with donations of non-perishable items, and by volunteering.

Amanda Bloomfield, Gatehouse CEO, said: “We have been overwhelmed by the amount raised by arc this year; it was totally unexpected.

“The team have been fantastic to work with and there’s been lots of fun activities throughout.

“The rewards have not only been financial as it has also helped to raise awareness of Gatehouse throughout the town, with many shops and businesses coming forward to join in.

“The money raised will be used to help fund our social supermarket and welcome café, both of which have seen huge demand over the last 12 months.

“The café has become a real social hub and place where people can chat together, reduce loneliness and find ways to manage tight budgets and rising costs.”

Allan Hassell, Centre Manager at arc, said: “We are absolutely delighted with the funds raised for Gatehouse throughout the year.

“We wanted to highlight a marvellous, truly local charity that is doing critical work for our community.

“With Gatehouse being within Bury St Edmunds in Dettingen Way, we know that the funds raised are going directly into helping the community in which we operate.

“I’d like to extend my sincerest thanks to everyone who helped us to support Gatehouse this year, whether that was with a donation of any amount at one of our centre events, through to donations from our tenants and our stall holders who donated to Gatehouse in lieu of their pitch fees.”