Group suppliers support children living in refuge

Earlier this month, our Staffs Housing property services team reached out to suppliers, contractors and supporters in search of Easter gifts for children living in refuge. 

It was local company, Broad Oak, who complete repairs across Staffs Housing homes who replied straight away. The team provided easter eggs, consoles, games and a gaming chair to support the 38 children currently living in Glow, also part of Honeycomb Group's, refuge. 

Head of Assets and Property Services Jon Parkes explained more: "we recently visited the refuge and were blown away by the passion of the team. They provide a safe space and give emotional and practical support to help residents address, end, and overcome domestic abuse."

"Staff mentioned that families come to refuge with no more than the clothes on their backs and that children can sometimes feel left out during celebrations like Easter."

Refuge manager Nicola Edwards said the donation means the children won’t go without this Easter.

“We support families with children from the age of 0-18 who were all over the moon”, said Nicola. “On Friday morning we organised an Easter egg hunt on for the little ones and put the video games out for the older children too. It gave them a chance to be kids again, not having to worry about the stress of anything going on around them.

It’s good for the mums too as it saves them having to worry about how they’ll afford to buy Easter eggs, so their child doesn’t go without.”

Stuart Coats at Broad Oak said he’s glad to be able to help local families in need.

“I’ve personally worked with Staffs Housing for a long time so when Jon got in touch asking for our help, I was on board straight away. We bought Easter eggs and got in touch with staff to see if they had any games or consoles to donate.

“My colleague Caroline had an X-box her daughter didn’t use and donated it because Glow’s mission was very close to her heart. It feels great to give something back and knowing the kids will love the donation means the world.”