Care Home Residents Show their Support for People at Risk of Homelessness

Funds raised by the residents of a Dorset care home will be used to improve the mental health of people at risk of homelessness.

Colten Care’s Avon Cliff in Bournemouth chose to support the charitable housing association BCHA in 2021 and despite Covid restrictions has staged a variety of fundraising events on its behalf.

Clinical Lead Emma Williams explained: “BCHA’s headquarters is very close to Avon Cliff and our residents and staff greatly admire its work in providing housing, education and support to many thousands of people each year.

“At Christmas we were thrilled to donate a host of toys to BCHA for the women and children at Bournemouth Women’s Refuge.

“While Covid has prevented us from enjoying some of the larger events we would have held, our Easter Party, a special Air Show event, our Christmas Gala and assorted raffles have together raised £629 for BCHA.

“It gives us a great deal of joy to think the money we have raised will be helping people who really need it.”

BCHA’s Director of Homelessness, Health & Wellbeing Caroline Moylan met with Emma, Avon Cliff Customer Service Advisor Hayley McEvoy and Colten Companion Paulina Trzcinska to receive the donation and deliver her sincere thanks.

She said: “We are so grateful for the funds raised by Colten Care. This will enable us to develop much needed resources and activities to positively support people’s mental health.”

Speaking at the time of the toy donation in December 2021, Avon Cliff resident Peter Kennard said: “It is good to support such a worthwhile local charity, especially at this time of year.”