The Upcycling Workshop aims to furnish disused commercial spaces across the London borough with preloved furniture, creating warm and inviting homes where young individuals transitioning out of the care system can thrive. Currently, only 2% of social housing in the UK comes furnished, leaving many new residents, who often face financial difficulties, struggling to secure essential items like chairs, beds and drawers. Habitat for Humanity is committed to addressing this issue by providing secure and quality homes for those in need, wherever they live.
Henkel continues its partnership with Habitat for Humanity to support the local community through its upcycling initiative
At Henkel, sustainability is at the heart of our business strategy. We’re committed not only to improving our products, processes, and packaging but also to making a meaningful impact in the communities where we operate in. That’s why in October, a dedicated team of volunteers from Henkel’s Craftsmen, Construction and Professional business paid a visit to Habitat for Humanity’s Upcycling Workshop in Dagenham to help restore some donated furniture and give back to the local area.
Ten volunteers, representing marketing, sales, business planning and engineering, participated in the busy day of hands-on work. Habitat for Humanity kindly provided all the necessary safety equipment and three highly trained staff members to assist and guide the team throughout the day. The volunteers were divided into two groups: one team focused on stripping, sanding, and painting the furniture, while the second team handled the finishing touches, including waxing, varnishing, and reassembling the pieces. After a rewarding yet dusty afternoon, the team had successfully upcycled more than a dozen items, ready to be distributed across the London borough.
Sustainability is more than just a buzzword for us, it’s deeply embedded in our values. Our recent experience with Habitat for Humanity provided a wonderful opportunity to get hands-on and make a real difference, aligning perfectly with our ambitious target of ensuring every home can benefit from our products to help create a better world. It was an incredibly rewarding day, and we were thrilled to work with such a fantastic organisation for the third year in a row. The team and I are excited to continue this meaningful collaboration into 2025.
Philippa Lewis, Project Lead & Trade Marketing Manager
