Great start to 2020 thanks to community donations

Dozens of people living in Derventio supported housing are enjoying a positive start to the new year thanks to generous donations made over the festive period.

Christmas treats from The Ripley Academy

Students and staff from The Ripley Academy invited two residents to speak at the school in December after putting together more than 20 festive boxes packed with essential items such as toiletries and tins of food, as well as some special Christmas treats. The boxes were thoughtfully put together by the sixth form students, beautifully decorated and some included messages or Christmas cards.

Shacklocks staff make Christmas donations

Staff at the Belper, Derby, Mansfield and Ripley offices of solicitors and investment advisor firm Shacklocks LLP collected items ranging from basic essentials through to gardening equipment and even a Christmas tree. We were bowled over by their generosity, and recipients really appreciated their gifts, which were kindly dropped off by Sarah and Chloe just before Christmas.

Boxes of goodies from The Advent Challenge

And finally, we were one of several local groups to benefit from a Derby-wide campaign, The Advent Challenge for the Homeless and Disadvantaged. Run by Rich Vickers and Earl Richards, the campaign encouraged people to donate 24 items to support people who are struggling. The idea really took off, with lots of press and social media coverage. Several of the boxes were donated to Derventio, and two people living in our supported housing spoke to BBC Radio Derby about their experiences.

Thank you!

We are so grateful for all of this support from the local community. These gifts will come in extremely useful and are a timely reminder to people who are going through tough times that people do care. A huge thank you to everyone who has donated.