As global celebrities arrive in Manchester today for the Chanel Metiers d’Art show, a homeless charity is highlighting how demand for its clothing services has rocketed.
Maxine Peake is fronting the A/W23 Collection by Lifeshare campaign, which has been shot by Rankin. It’s been produced and executed by Meanwhile.
The Manchester charity – based just a stone’s throw from the Chanel catwalk – stated that in the last year alone it has served close to 12,000 hot meals – double that of last year. It has also given out more than 6500 clothing items.
“At least 1 in 74 people in Manchester are homeless, and we’ve been experiencing unprecedented levels of demand for our services as the temperature has dropped. In the past year alone, we’ve seen demand for clothes rise by 158%,” said Judith Vickers, Operations Manager at Lifeshare.
“The eyes of the world are on Manchester as Chanel comes to town, so what better time to showcase the generosity, resilience and fashion that the people of this city have to offer? We look forward to working with the people of Manchester and beyond to help provide support for those who need it most.”
Over the years Rankin has photographed some of the A-listers expected to attend tonight’s event, including Kate Moss.
“As a long-time supporter of Lifeshare, I’m well aware of the important work they do in supporting Manchester’s homeless community, especially throughout the winter months which are particularly difficult for those that can’t afford to buy clothes – let alone high fashion,” said Peake.
“I’m proud to have donated practical items like jackets and new underwear, and would encourage anyone else planning to visit the Northern Quarter over the coming days do the same, to help us redefine street fashion and tackle clothing poverty.”
