Chamber committee launches literary mission – and urges business community to help
The Lichfield & Tamworth Chamber of Commerce committee is on a literary mission to make a difference – and they’re calling on the local business community to help.
Their next event, Business, Books & Big Impact, promises an evening of networking with purpose, as the Chamber throws its full support behind its Charity of the Year, Grace Cares.
The unique Chamber event, from 6.30pm to 8.30pm on Monday June 30, brings together local businesses to connect over a shared commitment to supporting the local community, older people, their families – and the planet.
The highlight of the evening, at PI-KEM, Unit 18, Tame Valley Business Centre, Wilnecote, Tamworth, B77 5BY, is the launch of the Grace Cares Sustainable Bookshop – a creative and eco-conscious fundraising initiative designed to raise vital funds to keep the charity’s community van on the road.
Grace Cares rescues pre-loved care equipment from landfill and redistributes it to people in need across Staffordshire and beyond. Their community van is the backbone of the operation – visiting NHS Trusts and care homes, chatting with staff and residents, and collecting equipment that can be given a second life.
So far, the charity has helped over 1,500 people and saved more than 2,000 pieces of equipment from landfill. But with previous volunteer drivers now unable to continue due to health reasons, Grace Cares urgently needs funding to pay a dedicated crew. The Chamber committee has pledged to raise £5,000 to cover six months of van operations – half of the total annual cost.
Guests are encouraged to bring a favourite book to use as a conversation starter, extra pre-loved or inspiring books to donate and a willingness to get involved further, from hosting book boxes in offices or coffee shops to helping with printing, fund-raising or logistics.
The Grace Cares Sustainable Bookshop will stock donated books in local venues, raising ongoing funds while promoting community sharing and sustainability.
Attendees can enjoy relaxed networking, a warm Chamber welcome, and the chance to make a tangible difference to people’s lives – all over a bite to eat (catering details to be confirmed).
Chamber President Fiona Rouse said: “The Lichfield & Tamworth Chamber is proud to stand behind Grace Cares and their inspiring mission to make care sustainable.
“This initiative perfectly reflects the community spirit, innovation, and social responsibility our local businesses are known for. I encourage every Chamber member to get involved – whether by donating a book or pledging support for the van, together we can create real impact.”
Grace Cares Co-founder Hannah Montgomery added: “This is more than a fundraiser – it’s a movement to make care more sustainable, more connected, and more community-driven. With the Chamber’s support, we can reach more people, save more equipment from landfill, and build a future where care and sustainability go hand in hand.”
The committee says £1,000 will provide one month of van support, £2,500 will cover three months, £5,000 six months, and £10,000 for a full year.
