School turns ‘opposite’ to help homeless charity

Innovative Junior School, Oakridge, were proud to hand over a cheque for £127 to May Place House, the Basingstoke hostel run by YOU which provides support to homeless people in the area.

“We wanted to do something a bit different to raise awareness of homelessness,” said Katy Thompson, the Deputy Head, “our children decided to dress opposite for the day and to raise money that way. We were really proud that so many children took part and we were able to donate the money to such a worthy local cause.” May Place House is a Basingstoke based hostel which provides rooms, food and professional support to 20 people. “This money will allow us to promote a more healthy lifestyle amongst our residents by purchasing some gym equipment for the hostel and making sure that people have the right information and support to stay healthy,” said Hostel Manager, Ingrid Wright. “What the children here at Oakridge have done is amazing. The school has been very supportive and the children have been really engaged with topics around homelessness and the work that we do.” The donation is the first step in a new relationship between Oakridge Junior School and May Place House as the children have decided they will support the hostel throughout the year and will look at other ways to raise money and help out. “The children have been incredibly kind and we were made to feel very welcome,” said Basingstoke Homelessness Woker, Colin Thiede-Lowe, “and we’ve agreed to put a stall together for the school’s summer fete in June. Everyone at May Place House is really excited that Oakridge has chosen us as their charity for the year.” Ends Words: 279 Image (left to right): Colin Thiede-Lowe (Deputy Hostel Manager), Ingrid Wright (Hostel Manager), Madeleine Sly and Holly McCann