Vulnerable and disadvantaged young people in Leamington are being helped to be kept warm and fed this winter thanks to a charitable donation from a local law firm.
Wright Hassall has donated a commercial toaster to Young People First as part of the charity’s mission to provide meals for young people and their families at Westbury Community Centre, and has also donated blankets and clothes after setting up a collection point for staff and clients in its Olympus Avenue offices.
It follows five members of Wright Hassall’s team volunteering with Young People First over the school holidays to help deliver its lunch club and activities, with one of the volunteers – paralegal Matthew Hill – now also signing up to support the charity as the charity’s treasurer.
The company’s work with the charity is part of a new charitable link set up through its environmental, social and governance initiative – part of Wright Hassall’s 2025 plan – which encourages supporting the local community and good causes.
Leamington-based Young People First provide activities and offer support to young people, their families and the local community, mainly around the Brunswick ward, however demand for its services has increased in recent months as a result of the cost-of-living crisis.
Matthew, who will oversee the accounts for the charity in his new role, said: “The work of Young People First is so important as they can offer a real lifeline to young people.
“We were all really pleased to help volunteer in the lunch clubs and get involved in the activities with these fantastic kids, as it is important for us as a company to give back to our local community.
“One of the big responsibilities of my new role will be advising on the viability of the charity and making sure they have enough money coming in, which is vital for them given the economic challenges and pressures they are under.
“Unfortunately, the current situation has meant their services are needed more now than ever, and we will be continuing to help support them in the future with fundraising initiatives planned in the new year.”
Jo Squires, Chief Officer at Young People First, added: “The support we have had from Wright Hassall and the constant offer of ‘what can we do to help’ has been a big help. We would love more companies to get involved in this way as it makes such a difference to us; as a charity we do not receive any government funding and have to find the funds ourselves.
“Having Matt join our Trustee board will make a massive difference to us as well and his skills will be invaluable.
“A lot of our work has expanded in recent months because of growing demand from the cost-of-living crisis, so we’re looking for more volunteers and developing a bigger pool of regular donations to help meet that challenge – even as little as £5 a month will help.”
To get involved, contact Jo on jo.squires@youngpeoplefirst.org.uk or 01926 450156.
