Lakeside Church Receives Over £8,000 from Proceeds of Crime Act to Support Free Clothes Store

Merseyside Police’s Operation Payback initiative continues to make a real difference by reinvesting money seized from criminals back into local communities.

Today, we’re shining a spotlight on Lakeside Church in Southport, a place that provides vital support for people of all ages through family services, community groups, and outreach work. Its ethos centres on helping people navigate life’s challenges, offering connection, encouragement, and practical help.

Thanks to funds recovered under the Proceeds of Crime Act, Lakeside Church has received over £8,000 to support its Free Clothes Store — a lifeline for individuals and families facing financial hardship.

The Free Clothes Store provides:
Free clothing for adults and children
Coats, shoes & seasonal essentials
Toiletries and hygiene products
A safe, dignified, non‑judgemental environment for anyone in need

The store also supplies clothing bundles to mental health facilities and the Probation Service and even provides prom dresses and tuxedos for young people who may otherwise struggle to access formalwear.

Assistant Pastor Georgina Vernon said“I want to personally thank Liverpool Crown Court and Merseyside Police, for this incredibly generous donation to our Church. It will help us amongst other things, to run our Free Clothes Store. This support will make a very real and immediate difference to individuals and families in our community who are facing financial hardship and uncertainty.

“The Free Clothes Store is about more than clothes, it’s about restoring hope and showing people that their community cares. Support like this enables us to continue meeting real needs at a critical time.

“This money will help us extend compassion, restore dignity, and meet people at a point of real need.”

If you or someone you know needs support — or if you’d like to refer someone — please get in touch:
clothes@lakesidechurch.uk
Free Clothes Store, Lakeside Church
Fairway, Southport
PR9 0LA

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