Persimmon awards donation to help the homeless
05 July 2021
Our West Midlands region has donated £450 to a centre in Stoke supporting families who have lost their home.
The Gingerbread Centre was awarded the cash boost as part of the Community Champions scheme which aims to support charities and good causes in the community.
Chris Belyavin, from the centre, said: “We’ve been raising money to refurbish an outdoor community and play space at Rothesay Court because we want to offer better facilities for our families by turning it into a vibrant, exciting area.”
“This donation will go towards a new wooden shed to provide safe, secure storage for the small items of play equipment.
“Work has started and should be complete in time for the summer and hopefully the end of Covid restrictions.”
The centre provides temporary accommodation for the whole family, preventing children being split from their parents and put into temporary care.
Chris added: “We’re seeing increased demand for our support and issues such as mental health and domestic violence are featuring more in homeless situations.”
“By giving appropriate support and training, we aim to resolve the reason as to why the family lost their home, get them back on track and ultimately back into a home of their own, regardless of how long it takes.”
“We believe that every child has the right to play whatever their circumstances and in fact, play can help children when they are in unfamiliar surroundings.”
“Socialising can help families realise that they’re not the only ones in their situation.”
Persimmon Homes West Midlands makes two donations of up to £1,000 every month to good causes like The Gingerbread Centre.
Stephen Cleveley, managing director of Persimmon Homes West Midlands, said: “We are delighted to be able to help Chris and everyone at The Gingerbread Centre.”
“Our Community Champions initiative is all about supporting the local community and this money couldn’t be going to a better cause.”
For more information visit or to apply for Community Champions funding visit www.persimmonhomes.com/charity.
