Loose Ends, a local charity providing hot meals and support to homeless and vulnerable people in Newbury has welcomed a £500 donation courtesy of Persimmon employee, Lee Farmer.

The charity first opened its doors in May 1990 but has evolved considerably since its inception. Originally providing a sandwich lunch on Sundays only, Loose Ends now operates five days a week from its base at Newbury Cricket Club. As well as providing hot and nutritious meals throughout the week, the charity also gives out basic tins of food and supplies clothing, bedding and toiletries to people in need.

Loose Ends is run entirely by volunteers and relies on the donations and fundraising efforts of local people to deliver its essential services. Lee Farmer, Land Director at Thames Valley, and his wife both fundraise and support Loose Ends so Lee was delighted to help secure a £500 donation for the organisation through Persimmon Homes’ employee charity fund.

Lee Farmer said: “I’ve been really inspired by the amazing work that Loose Ends do for the local community and I was absolutely thrilled that I was able to secure a further £500 from Persimmon’s employee charity fund. “I know this will make a huge difference to Loose Ends and will enable them to do even more to help homeless and vulnerable people in Newbury.

Diana Lacey, Chair of Trustees for Loose Ends commented: “We’re thrilled to have received this £500 donation from Lee and Persimmon Homes.

With the rising cost of living, we’ve seen a noticeable increase in the numbers of people needing a hot meal and support so this money will provide a real boost for us.”

Beyond providing food and other essentials for the homeless and people in need, Loose Ends also provides guidance and advice to the people using its services and can help to signpost people to other organisations that can offer support.

More information about Loose End can be found on their website. https://www.looseendsnewbury.org