A Doncaster domestic abuse charity that has continued to provide emergency refuge accommodation and support services throughout the pandemic has received a £5,000 donation from a local housebuilder.

Phoenix WoMens Aid, which supports women, men, and children who are victims, and survivors, of domestic violence and abuse, was given the funds from Persimmon Homes South Yorkshire, as part of festive donation.

The charity provides both long- and short-term safe accommodation and community-based support for women, men and their children who are living with, or fleeing from, domestic violence and abuse

Serving the Doncaster region, Phoenix WoMens Aid will use the funds to maintain its ongoing services.  Should anyone require their support visit www.phoenixwomensaid.org.uk

Cassidy McCarthy*, from Phoenix WoMens Aid, said: “This donation was a wonderful surprise and most appreciated at a time when many of our fundraising activities are on hold.

“The coronavirus crisis, and the associated lockdowns, has sadly increased domestic violence cases and we are seeing a growing demand for our support and services. 

“Persimmon Homes’ donation will help us meet this need and those who need us.”

With the current pandemic limiting charities’ traditional fundraising activities, the Harworth-based housebuilder wanted to bring some extra cheer to worthy causes that work tirelessly to support others.

Richard Hosie, director-in-charge at Persimmon Homes South Yorkshire, said: “Our popular Community Champions scheme, where we give up to £1,000 each month to two grassroots groups and charities in areas we are building, goes some way to support these hard working, and selfless groups.

“After such a difficult year, for so many, we felt a festive donation was also needed. My team selected the beneficiaries and I feel they choose well.

“May I remind other such groups to apply to our match-funding Community Champions scheme so we can continue to support as many good causes as we can.”

The online application to the Persimmon Homes Community Champions scheme can be found at www.persimmonhomes.com/charity

Persimmon Homes is currently building a its Warren Park development, in Bessacarr, where the sites surrounding woodlands is managed at Yorkshire Wildlife Trust. Over the coming years more than 600 homes will be built.

For further information on properties at Warren Park visit www.persimmonhomes.com