KASH Retail, operator of Nisa Local Fenby Avenue in Darlington, has generously donated £1,000 through Nisa’s Making a Difference Locally (MADL) Pride Pot to support this year’s Darlington Pride Festival.
The donation, inspired by store team member Gavin Morrison, who performs as drag queen Georgina Sparks, will provide a valuable boost to the event, helping organisers deliver an inclusive and vibrant celebration for the local community.
Darlington Pride Festival, taking place from Saturday 9 to Monday 11 August, is a key event in the town’s cultural calendar. The festival showcases performances, parades, and community activities, promoting diversity and inclusivity.
It is supported by numerous local businesses and organisations, including primary sponsor Cummins Inc. and the Office of the Police & Crime Commissioner.
Cllr James Coe, Darlington Borough Council’s LGBT+ Champion, welcomed the donation, saying, “We’re very grateful to Nisa Local for offering £1,000 to support plans for this year’s event.
"The funds will be added to the council’s budget for the event and help make Pride 2025 extra special. “
The events team deliver a varied programme of free public events and welcome the opportunity to work with sponsors to make fun, exciting things happen in the town centre.."
KASH Retail was able to make this generous donation thanks to funds from MADL’s Pride Pot. The fund, created in 2023, allows Nisa retailers to support LGBTQ+ community groups and charities with £1,000 donations.
Nisa retailers are able to utilise the funding pot all year round.
Kevin Polley, Operations Manager for Nisa Local, highlighted the importance of customer support in making these donations possible: “Every time a customer buys one of our own-brand products, a penny from that sale is added to our Make a Difference fund.
"This donation is out of the MADL Pride Pot - we’re delighted to be supporting such a popular and inclusive event, right on our doorstep!”
Kate Carroll, Nisa’s Head of Charity, praised the initiative, stating: “We are incredibly proud to see Nisa retailers using MADL funding to support causes that matter to their local communities.
"The Pride Pot was created to help make a difference to LGBTQ+ events, and it is fantastic to see KASH Retail supporting Darlington Pride Festival in such a meaningful way.”
With the help of contributions like this, Darlington Pride Festival continues to grow, offering a welcoming and inclusive space for all to celebrate and support the LGBTQ+ community.
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