The Big Issue Foundation, which assists vendors with working their way out of homeless and gaining skills that will help them in life, has teamed up with Powa Technologies for its fundraising drive, enabling people to donate instantly using their smartphone.

The charitys appeal is focused on the work of its Service Brokers, who work with Big Issue Vendors to help them regain independence and rebuild their lives, acting as a safety net for some of the most vulnerable members of our society.

Using the PowaTag app, people will be able to scan codes featured in the Big Issue Magazine or on its website, as well as those in direct mail and email campaigns. Within moments, people can set up regular or one-off donations to the charity.

“Thousands of people are homeless in the UK and the charity does an amazing job helping vulnerable people off the streets,” said Dan Wagner, CEO and founder of Powa Technologies. “The PowaTag technology has huge potential to help people support the vital work of charities like the Big Issue Foundation.

“66 per cent of adults in the UK now own a smartphone, and PowaTag gives charities a new and innovation way to connect to these millions of people. Many people often feel an urge to donate when they see a heart-warming advert and PowaTag gives potential donors a quick and easy solution to act on this impulse.”