At BRB we have been taking part in a ‘Reverse Advent’ this year. For those who are not familiar with the term, and I myself certainly was not, a Reverse Advent calendar is a calendar that gives something back. You put aside a donation each day of advent so you have a collection of goods ready to drop off in time for Christmas.
BRB started a little earlier than 1st December to allow sufficient time for us to deliver the donations to organisations who would ensure they reached the intended recipients for Christmas. There are many worthy charities in the local area helping people in crisis throughout the year, all of whom should be congratulated for the fantastic service they provide to our community.
This year we have chosen to support ‘Open Door’.
The charity was founded in November 2013 by just 4 people, including the Managing Director Vanessa Renshaw. They started with just a kettle and a toaster, and of course a huge amount of kindness.They have successfully grown into a much larger operation currently offering two drop ins per week, a foodbank, a clothes/furniture bank, garden project and substance free house. More information about their amazing work in the Stoke on Trent area can be found at http://opendoorstokeontrent.co.uk/index.html
I am delighted at the enthusiasm and very proud of the generosity my team have afforded to the Reverse Advent and helping vulnerable people in the local area.
If you would like to support Open Door they are currently raising funds to buy a much-needed van to assist in their outstanding work across Stoke on Trent. Please follow the link below to read more about their appeal:
http://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/collection-van-for-homeless-charity
May I take this opportunity to thank you for your continued support of BRB and to wish you and your family a Merry Christmas and a Happy & Prosperous New Year.
Best Wishes
Neil Hart BA APFS
Director