Why we fundraise
Practical help, local dignity
For over a decade, SHAX has supported people in Dumfries & Galloway through essential aid—while reuse and recycling at Merrick House help fund programmes including free Emergency Home Starter Packs. This site is where businesses and supporters fund that pack work.
Founded
February 2008
Partner agencies
26+
Warehouse open
Mon–Sat, 9am–4pm
Items donated annually
10,000+
Who SHAX is
SHAX was founded in February 2008 to help people facing poverty and homelessness move from emergency accommodation into a tenancy with dignity—starting with practical items like furniture and household essentials.
Today the charity runs the Dumfries warehouse and shop, volunteering and placements, and community programmes. Starter packs, referrals, and full service detail are explained on the main SHAX website—we link to those pages below rather than repeat everything here.
What we do (and what this site is for)
On the ground, SHAX provides Emergency Home Starter Packs through a partner referral system, sells reused furniture and homeware at affordable prices, and keeps good donations out of landfill. The charity works with 26+ local agencies for a joined-up approach to support.
SHAX Fundraising is the place to call the team, give in person, add Gift Aid if you’re eligible, and explore business sponsorship. We don’t take card payments on this site—giving is personal, and you’ll speak to people who know the warehouse and the packs.
News and stories on /impact show how reuse income, referrals, and local gifts combine to keep packs free for households referred by housing, health, and community partners.
The warehouse at Merrick House
The warehouse is the heart of SHAX—where donations are received, sorted, and sold to fund programmes. It’s open to the public Monday to Saturday, 9am–4pm (closed Sunday).
If you visit to give or to see the shop floor, you’ll find us at Merrick House, The Crichton, Bankend Road, Dumfries DG1 4TA. For directions and the latest hours, use the main site’s visit section.
Our charitable aims
In line with SHAX on shax.org.uk:
- Provide Emergency Home Starter Packs for people in need
- Offer furniture and household items at reduced cost through reuse
- Reduce waste by reusing and upcycling donations
- Support vulnerable individuals and families across Dumfries & Galloway
- Work with local agencies so support is timely and joined-up
Visit Merrick House
Merrick House, The Crichton, Bankend Road, Dumfries, DG1 4TA
Monday–Saturday: 9am–4pm. Sunday: closed.
Inside the charity shop
More on shax.org.uk
Volunteering, trustee roles, team profiles, programmes, and legal policies are all on shax.org.uk.
Scottish Charity SC042940. Verify on OSCR.