Local Lawyers Support Two Local Homeless Charities This Christmas

A Gatwick law firm is donating a share of £3,000 to two local charities this Christmas, as part of the firm’s efforts in relieving poverty and suffering among the homeless during the festive season.

Irwin Mitchell is donating £1,500 to Renewed Hope Trust (RHT) and £1,500 to Crawley Open House, as a share of the £39,000 set aside for homeless charities across the country by the Irwin Mitchell Charities Foundation (IMCF).

The donation is part of a nationwide programme developed by the IMCF, an independent registered charity that has donated more than £2 million to good causes in the UK and £284,000 in 2018 alone since it was established in 1997.

In 2018, the IMCF donated £13,000 to homeless charities at Christmas and the success of what has become an annual tradition, has seen the amount given to good causes tripled for 2019, with the RHT and Crawley Open House chosen for support locally this year.

Established in 1982, Crawley Open House provides a resource and advice centre for the homeless and vulnerable of a large area of Mid and West Sussex. While its mission remains the same, it has expanded over the years to offer a 26 bed high-support hostel and drop-in day centre, together with health, outreach, resettlement and advice teams.

RHT exists to provide practical and emotional support to the homeless and disadvantaged of East Surrey through a year-round drop-in and a Winter Night Shelter. The charity provides direct support to people no matter how complex their situation; this involves meals, shelter and clothing, through to help with finding housing and employment.

Mary-Anne Parsons of RHT, said: “We offer hope, acceptance and the opportunity to build a new life. This donation from Irwin Mitchell will prove invaluable in our efforts to make our guests’ Christmas warm and welcoming and offer some hope for a brighter 2020.”

Ian Wilkins of Crawley Open House, said: “We are so grateful to Irwin Mitchell for their continued support this Christmas. The winter months provide the biggest challenge to those on the streets and in temporary accommodation, and it is only through the support of generous companies, organisations and individuals that we continue our vital work amongst them”

Expert Opinion

“There are many deserving charities to choose from at Christmas and we like to offer our support where we can do the most good. For that reason, the Renewed Hope Trust and Crawley Open House stood out.

Both do valuable work in the community and we know they have had difficulties raising funds, so it is nice to be in a position to help both. Crawley Open House were our Charity of the Year in 2017 so we know all about the work they do. I’m sure both can put £1,500 to good use, supporting some of the most vulnerable in our community at Christmas.”
Faye Bargery - Partner