Sandicliffe Ford Transit Centre Support Local Charity; The Friary

The Friary is a well respected registered charity working hard to empower homeless and vulnerable adults to rebuild their lives by offering practical services, advice and emotional support. The shelter based in West Bridgford, Nottingham was founded in 1988 by Ann Bremner MBE and was originally open one day a week and run entirely by volunteers to address a specific local need. Offering free advice and support via a wide range of services with open access drop-in sessions being delivered three times per week, 52 weeks of the year.

After hearing about all the passionate and hard-working individuals that work around the clock to provide such services, Group Commercials Manager Nick Osborne was only too happy to support them over the festive period. Marketing & Communications Officer Helen Jones & Chief Executive Sam Crawford contacted Sandicliffe Ford Transit Centre asking if we could help with donating a Transit Van for six weeks.

During the six weeks, the van was used to collect much-needed donations from the local community (food, clothing, microwaves, kettles, bedding etc). All of these items are then donated free of charge to local people in crisis. The Friary is encountering an ever-increasing number of people who cannot afford to meet their own basic needs and so these items are an essential for those who seek their services.

Sam Jones, Chief Executive at The Friary commented:

“Having the van at this time has been particularly helpful given all the harvest festival collections that we have made from local schools and churches.

The ability to move stock using the van has directly allowed us to offer vital practical support to local people who would otherwise not be able to meet their basic needs. We are hugely appreciative of Sandicliffe’s kind support and on behalf of the local people we serve we would like to say a massive thank you.”

During the course of the six weeks, the Ford Transit Van carried out 48 collections and 35 deliveries. Here at Sandicliffe we are always moved by local charities, groups and organisations and the passion and selfless actions that are taken to support others. Especially at a time like Christmas when many are without a home, food or shelter in sub-zero temperatures. Charities like The Friary not only provide donations, their support and advice is invaluable and we look forward to continuing our support going forward.

You can find out more by watching the short testimonial from one of the service users below and can also help The Friary with a small donation towards their Crisis Appeal.