A local stationery store has donated Pokémon cards to a children’s club in an effort to “turn a negative into a positive for the community” after unwanted cards were repeatedly dumped near its premises.
Paperclix took to social media last week after a staff member found Pokémon cards discarded in bushes around the shop, apparently because the buyer had not received the cards they wanted.
The store said it was the second such discovery that month and argued that unwanted cards could instead have been returned for donation to children or charity.
Paperclix owner Jade Gallichan said: “It was so disheartening seeing that, as we ourselves are collectors and some of us have been for two decades.
“Unfortunately, as it was raining at the time, the cards were warped and damaged beyond saving, so once the staff member got home, they just binned them.
“Twice in one month is terrible and the fact it happened a second time is so frustrating.”
Although Paperclix no longer sells the cards, customers alerted staff to a Pokémon club currently being run by Centrepoint.
The store subsequently donated sealed packs for children at the club to open and enjoy.
Jade said that, although Pokémon has a community of older fans who grew up with the franchise, the cards are “first and foremost” for children.
Centrepoint thanked the business on social media, describing the donation as a “simple act of kindness” that would bring “so much excitement and joy to others”.
The childcare provider added: “We know our children are going to have an amazing time opening their packs, discovering their cards and hopefully finding some special ones along the way.
“A huge thanks to Jade and everyone at Paperclix for your incredible generosity and for helping us make our new Pokémon Club even more exciting. Turning a negative into a positive is always heartwarming.
“This is exactly what acts of kindness are all about: making a difference, spreading joy to others and showing our children that people in our community really care.”
