Easter appeal means children escaping domestic abuse 'won't go without'

Last week our Property Services Team appealed to their contractors and supporters for donations to help children living in a local domestic abuse refuge. 

The refuge run by Honeycomb Group's domestic abuse charity Glow is currently supporting 38 children. 

Head of Assets and Property Services Jon Parkes says the Staffs Housing team is always looking for ways to support Glow and saw an opportunity to help. 

"We recently visited the refuge and were blown away by the passion of the team", said Jon. 

"They provide a safe space and give emotional and practical support to help residents address, end, and overcome domestic abuse. 

"Staff mentioned that families come to refuge with no more than the clothes on their backs and that children can sometimes feel left out during celebrations like Easter."

Knowing this the team rallied around asking for the support of colleagues and partners. 

“Broad Oak complete repairs in our homes, I mentioned it to them and straight away they offered to help”, added Jon.

“Within just a couple of days, they donated games, consoles, Easter eggs, and even a gaming chair too!”

Refuge Scheme Manager Nicola Edwards says the donation means the children won’t go without this Easter.

“We support families with children from the age of 0-18 and I know they will be over the moon”, said Nicola.

“On Friday morning we’ll put an Easter egg hunt on for the little ones and put the video games out for the older children too.

“It will give them a chance to be kids again, not having to worry about the stress of anything going on around them.

“It’s good for the mums too as it saves them having to worry about how they’ll afford to buy Easter eggs, so their child doesn’t go without.”

Stuart Coats at Broad Oak says he’s glad to be able to help local families in need.

“I’ve personally worked with Staffs Housing for a long time so when Jon got in touch asking for our help, I was on board straight away.

“We bought Easter eggs and got in touch with staff to see if they had any games or consoles to donate.

“My colleague Caroline had an X-box her daughter didn’t use and donated it because Glow’s mission was very close to her heart.

“It feels great to give something back and knowing the kids will love the donation means the world.”