Fantastic fundraising event celebrates Unlocking Success bursary recipients
Over 300 people attended a fundraising lunch to raise money for our Unlocking Success Bursary scheme, which supports people living in social housing to access training and employment opportunities.
The event raised a total of £12,860, including a £3,000 donation from procurement partners Prosper. The money will be used to fund next year’s scheme which provides people living in social housing with £500 grants to cover expenses including course fees, travel, equipment, childcare and even living expenses.
This year’s Unlocking Success bursary scheme was our biggest ever with 35 bursaries awarded. Bursary recipients Sarah Wingfield and Naomi Taylor, both Livin tenants, and Karla Valencia Herrador, a Believe tenant, attended the event as guests of honour and shared their stories.
Sarah said:
“I am profoundly grateful to Northern Housing Consortium for this incredible opportunity. Their support has not only enhanced my business but also given me hope for continued growth and success. Thank you for making such a meaningful difference in my journey.”
Also in attendance was Katie Spittle, from Riverside, who was awarded a funded place on the GEM programme, to celebrate the NHC’s 50th anniversary. To be eligible applicants had to work for one of our members and live in social housing.
Northern Housing Consortium Chief Executive Tracy Harrison said:
“I’m really pleased we had such a fantastic turnout. This event funds our bursary scheme. It was fantastic to hear from Sarah, Naomi, Karla and Katie about the difference it’s made to them.”
A powerful poem Open Yer Eyes , created in the wake of last summer’s riots, as part of a project by Sunderland College, was shared. It reminded everyone of the positives in our communities, despite the troubling events earlier in the year. Two talented Sunderland College students also brought some festive cheer to the event by singing Christmas songs.
Also at the event was Newcastle Eagles player coach Chloe Gaynor who got everyone moving with a bounce and clap exercise.
If you were unable to attend the event but would like to support the Unlocking Success Bursary you can donate here.
