An East Anglian charity that helps homeless people to rebuild their lives has received more than £5,000 from local Persimmon employees.

Staff at Persimmon Anglia selected Norwich-based St Martins Housing Trust as its 2020 nominated charity of the year and raised a total of £5,318.90.

Dr Jan Sheldon, St Martins Housing Trust chief executive, said: “We are appreciative of the donation from Persimmon Homes Anglia. 2020 was a tough year for so many people, not least the people we support. Our costs went up and there were fewer fundraising opportunities, so this donation comes at just the right time for us.”

“We believe that everybody should have a place to call home. The lack of permanent, affordable housing is a significant problem in our country, and we support people every day whose accommodation is inadequate or have few options of where to stay. This donation will go towards providing more accommodation for homeless people in Norwich and Norfolk.”

The organisation provides a range of services to address homelessness in Norfolk, from emergency hostel accommodation to residential care for people with complex needs and training courses to enable people to build up their skills and self-esteem.

John Eldridge, director in charge at Persimmon Homes Anglia, said: “We understand that a home is so much more than bricks and mortar – it should also be a place of comfort and safety.”

“For some, circumstances lead them to losing their home. That is where organisations like St Martins step in, delivering meaningful and practical support to help those people rebuild their lives.”

“The charity really resonated with the Persimmon team, so we are proud to have raised funds despite the obvious difficulties and reduced opportunities 2020 presented.”

St Martins’ mission is to maximise independent living and prevent homelessness in the community by offering a hand up – housing, support and care – to the most vulnerable, and to enhance understanding and compassion towards homeless people in our community through education and advocacy.

Anyone interested in supporting the charity’s work can find out more at www.stmartinshousing.org.uk

In addition to the regional charity of the year, Persimmon Homes Anglia makes regular donations to local groups and good causes through its Community Champions fund. For more information and to apply for funding visit www.persimmonhomes.com/charity

* PICTURED: St Martins Housing Trust chief executive Dr Jan Sheldon (right) and head of life skills and social development, Nicky King, celebrate receiving £5,318.90 raised by employees of Persimmon Homes Anglia.