Tap to Donate Machines Raise £30,000 to Support Vulnerable People Across Milton Keynes

The Tap to Donate machines across Milton Keynes city centre have reached a major milestone, raising £30,000 to support people facing homelessness and vulnerability.

Delivered by MyMiltonKeynes BID as part of the Real Change Not Loose Change campaign, the Tap to Donate initiative offers a simple and secure way for residents, workers and visitors to give in the right way. Each £3 contactless donation is paid into a dedicated fund managed by the Milton Keynes Community Foundation, ensuring contributions go directly to trusted local projects.

Since launching in 2019, the machines have helped fund a wide range of frontline services, including emergency shelter, welfare advice and long-term pathways out of homelessness for people across Milton Keynes city centre.

Jill Farnsworth, CEO of MyMiltonKeynes, said, “We know how difficult it can be to walk past someone asking for money without feeling that pull on your heart. 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 for those who need it.”

Through the MyMiltonKeynes Homeless Support Fund, the Milton Keynes Community Foundation has recently awarded funding to Girls Flow Free, to help deliver their period poverty project in Milton Keynes.  The grant supported women and girls living in deprived areas and those experiencing rough sleeping, providing access to free menstrual and hygiene products.

Lauren Baker, Philanthropy Manager at Milton Keynes Community Foundation, said: "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. This includes supporting projects like Girls Flow Free, where period poverty intersects with homelessness and vulnerability. We’re grateful to be part of a community that cares and to be able to fund projects that support people with dignity and without judgement."

The Tap to Donate machines are located at key, high-footfall locations across Milton Keynes city centre and have recently been refreshed with a bold new look to help them stand out and encourage continued giving.

Donations can also be made online via the Milton Keynes Community Foundation, ensuring people can support the fund even when they’re not in the city centre.

As the scheme moves into 2026, MyMiltonKeynes BID hopes the £30,000 milestone will encourage even more people to

get involved and help turn everyday generosity into lasting, positive change.