MyMiltonKeynes Unveils Refreshed Tap to Donate Machines to Support Homelessness Prevention in Milton Keynes

MyMiltonKeynes BID has unveiled a major refresh of its popular Tap to Donate machines, giving each device a bold new look designed to catch attention and inspire even more generosity across Milton Keynes City Centre.

Part of the ongoing Real Change Not Loose Change campaign, the Tap to Donate machines offer residents, workers and visitors a simple way to support homelessness prevention services in Milton Keynes. Each tap of a credit or debit card—or mobile wallet—automatically donates £3 to local projects providing essential support for people facing homelessness.

Over £29,000 Raised for Homelessness Prevention in Milton Keynes

Since their introduction in 2019, the Tap to Donate machines have raised an impressive £29,586. These funds directly support local charities delivering emergency help, long-term assistance and vital prevention services for vulnerable individuals.

Jill Farnsworth, CEO of MyMiltonKeynes, said:“This is a project I’ve been really looking forward to completing, as six years on the machines were definitely in need of a refresh! We’ve raised thousands of pounds for homelessness prevention services across Milton Keynes over that time, and we hope the eye-catching new designs will encourage even more people to tap and give.”

Where to Find the Tap to Donate Machines in Milton Keynes

The refreshed Tap to Donate machines are located at key high-footfall areas across the city centre:

1. Milton Keynes Train Station

2. Marks & Spencer – Food Department door

3. Midsummer Place – near Popeyes

4. Midsummer Place – beside Wingstop and Zara

5. Leonardo Hotel window

6. centre:mk – outside H Beauty on Midsummer Arcade

7. Xscape – outside Slim Chickens

Each £3 donation goes directly into a dedicated fund managed by the Milton Keynes Community Foundation, ensuring 100% of contributions support charities and not-for-profit organisations working to tackle homelessness in Milton Keynes.

Most recently, a grant from the fund helped UnityMK continue its vital work supporting people facing homelessness and those experiencing rough sleeping in Milton Keynes. UnityMK provides year-round crisis support, including emergency shelter, hot meals, showers, laundry, welfare advice (housing, debt, mental health) and pathways into stable accommodation. The charity is currently seeing 10 new people a week who need urgent help.

Lauren Baker, Philanthropy Manager at Milton Keynes Community Foundation, said:“We would like to say thank you to MyMiltonKeynes BID for part-funding UnityMK's vital services through its Homelessness Fund with the Foundation. Because of its generosity, along with donations made through the contactless devices, we are able to provide transformational grants to tackle the key housing issues that sadly persist in Milton Keynes.”

Emma Johnson, CEO of UnityMK, added:“With 1 in 113 people locally now classed as homeless, the demand for UnityMK’s services continues to rise. We are deeply grateful to MyMiltonKeynes BID and Milton Keynes Community Foundation for their support and to every person who has contributed to the Homelessness Fund. With continued support, together we can end homelessness in our city.”

Make a Real Difference With One Tap