Bags of Mercy in Southampton

Two years ago Mercy Vineyard Church started a ‘bags of mercy’ project. Through this initiative they’ve been able to help those in the community of Southampton who are victims of domestic abuse. Sometimes women have to flee a situation with nothing but the clothes they are wearing. The police, an associated organisation or a Women’s Refuge will contact them and they can help by providing emergency bags of women’s essentials.

In just a short time the demand for the bags has increased so that as an individual church they are struggling to meet this need. Therefore they would like to invite other churches in Southampton to partner with them as they seek to serve the city in this way. Many churches are already collecting food items for the Basics Bank. We would love you to also collect items for Bags of Mercy from the list below. These things have been specifically requested by our Refuge contacts - practical essentials that can bring comfort and convenience at a distressing time. They can be delivered to any of the Food Banks across Southampton; details of which can be found on the Southampton City Mission website. Mercy Vineyard folk will then carefully pack into specially designed bags and distribute where and when needed.

Bags of Mercy Items to Collect

Bubble bath (500ml max)
Soap (singles)
Toothbrushes (singles)
Toothpaste (100ml)
Sanitary towels (small pack, regular or super)
Shampoo and Conditioner (matching)
Deodorant (roll on)
Hair brushes
Flannels
Hand towels
Treats eg. lip balm, hand cream, body scrub, body spray, shower gel (small) body lotion (small) etc.
Toilet rolls (good quality)
Nightdresses (size 14+)

We ask that all items be new/unused and of good quality so that recipients feel blessed and valued. Thank you for your generosity!

Mercy Vineyard would be happy to supply any church with leaflets, a poster/table sign, a collecting box sticker and printed shopping lists. Please contact the church office on 023 8046 3516 if you would like any of these things. Details can also be found on their website at www.mercyvineyardsouthampton.com.