A simple contactless tap in Milton Keynes city centre has helped raise £30,000 to support people experiencing homelessness and vulnerability across the city.
The milestone has been reached through the Tap to Donate machines, which allow residents, workers and visitors to give £3 quickly and securely at key locations across the city centre. The scheme forms part of the Real Change Not Loose Change campaign.
Each donation goes into a dedicated fund managed by the Milton Keynes Community Foundation, ensuring money is directed to trusted local projects that provide practical support rather than short-term fixes.
Since the machines were introduced in 2019, funds raised have helped pay for emergency accommodation, welfare advice and longer-term support designed to help people move away from homelessness.
Jill Farnsworth, chief executive at MyMiltonKeynes, said the scheme was created to help people give with confidence. “We know how difficult it can be to walk past someone asking for money without feeling that pull on your heart,” she said.
“Real Change Not Loose Change is about giving people a way to turn that compassion into something that definitely helps. Tap to Donate ensures generosity goes directly to local services that can offer practical support, safety and longer-term solutions.”
One recent project supported through the fund is Girls Flow Free, which tackles period poverty in Milton Keynes. The funding has helped provide free menstrual and hygiene products to women and girls living in deprived areas, including those who are rough sleeping.
Lauren Baker, philanthropy manager at Milton Keynes Community Foundation, said the donations make a real difference to people’s lives. “Thanks to the continued success of the Tap to Donate machines, we’re able to make targeted grants that respond directly to the growing needs we see in our communities,” she said.
“This includes supporting projects where period poverty intersects with homelessness and vulnerability. We’re grateful to be part of a community that cares and to fund support that’s delivered with dignity and without judgement.”
The Tap to Donate machines are positioned in high-footfall areas across Milton Keynes city centre and have recently been refreshed with a new look to make them easier to spot. Donations can also be made online through the Milton Keynes Community Foundation for those who want to give outside the city centre.
Organisers hope reaching the £30,000 milestone will encourage even more people to take part and help turn everyday generosity into lasting change for vulnerable residents.
