Homebuilder Bellway has handed over items donated at two of its developments near Ipswich to a charity that helps homeless people in the town.
The developer provided drop-off boxes for donations of food and toiletries for two weeks in the sales offices at Lockwood Place, off Loraine Way in Bramford, and at Ridley’s Orchard, off Old Norwich Road in Whitton.
The items were collected on behalf of Ipswich Outreach, which supports rough sleepers and homeless people in the town. The charity has been running a nightly soup kitchen since 1992 and has an Outreach Bus, which offers a safe space for other agencies to help people apply for jobs or claim benefits.
Nick Oliver, Sales Advisor from Bellway handed over the boxes to members of the Ipswich Outreach team.
Jenny Walker, Sales Director for Bellway Essex, said: “The period leading up to Christmas is a very busy time of year for many people, who are buying presents and food and drink in image005.jpgpreparation for a special family occasion in a lovely warm home. We thought it would be nice to take the time to remember those who are less fortunate than ourselves and may not have a home of their own or even one to go to.
“At Bellway Essex, we are acutely aware of the brilliant service that Ipswich Outreach provides to help and support the rough sleepers and homeless people and wanted to assist them in their work.
“After putting drop-off boxes for donations in two of our sales offices, the response we had was heartwarming. Residents, customers, and staff all dug deep and contributed items that the charity had specifically asked for. It was great for us to meet with the Ipswich Outreach team, to hand over the donation boxes and to let them know that people really do appreciate the incredible effort they put in.”
Ian Walter, co-ordinator of the charity’s soup kitchen, said: “The Soup Kitchen in Ipswich has run a nightly service since 1992 serving the homeless and those in need, providing food, toiletries, bedding and company.
“We are grateful for the gifts we receive from the kind public. It is donations like this that enable us to offer the best service we can.”
For more information about Ipswich Outreach, visit https://www.ipswichoutreach.co.uk/
Further details about Lockwood Place and Ridley’s Orchard can be seen at https://www.bellway.co.uk/new-homes/essex/lockwood-place or https://www.bellway.co.uk/new-homes/essex/ridleys-orchard.
