January 2012
Fifty vulnerable families across Swindon were given something to smile about this festive season with the help of the Halcrow Foundation.
Halcrow’s PR manager Sarah Nichols approached the foundation for funding on behalf of the Splitz Support Service, for victims of domestic abuse. The foundation agreed that if Sarah raised £500 it would put forward £1,500.
Sarah said: “Last year we were contacted by Splitz team member Michelle John to ask if we would collect non-perishable food for hampers. After helping deliver them to some of the families I really felt we could do more this year to help make their Christmas a little more enjoyable.”
Sarah, with the help of Swindon colleagues Margaret Essex, Melanie Crocker and Denise Trudgian, kicked off a range of fundraising activities including bag-packing at a local supermarket, holding a car-boot sale, selling mince pies and a raffle.
Their efforts, matched by the foundation’s donation, made it possible for Splitz to take three coaches to the Westonbirt Arboretum Winter Wonderland, where the children were able to meet Santa Claus and enjoy a hot chocolate. They were also given tickets to the local Swindon pantomime Cinderella at the Wyvern Theatre with refreshments and Splitz were also able to hold two Christmas arts and crafts sessions.
Splitz team member Michelle John said: “I can’t believe how kind people have been in recognising our cause. Most of these families have had a tough time and face Christmas on very limited resources. But such has been the support that we have been able to give them not just the basics but a few luxuries to show them they are special. This in turn helps to rebuild confidence and self-esteem. The help from Halcrow has been invaluable.”