Sparkling Christmas Cheer and Goodwill in Newcastle
The HOPE project is run by mother and daughter, Jo and Amy. They selflessly go out into Newcastle City Centre every Saturday night, whatever the weather, to give support to around 80 vulnerable adults who are living on the streets.
Jo and Amy offer the people they meet a hot meal and warm clothing along with other essential items such as toiletries. They receive no funding from any other organisations and rely totally on donations from the public for all items the items they distribute.
People we serve and ubu team members in the city have been really impressed by the commitment that Jo and Amy have shown to the project. “They’ve shown exceptional Kindness and selflessness in helping people who are very vulnerable, especially at this time of year”.
During the week, Jo works and Amy is studying at University. In their spare time they are usually to be found sorting out clothing and donated essential items ready for their Saturday night visit to the city centre.
Jo and Amy’s ethos is not just about providing immediate relief and support to those in need but they are also passionate about helping the people to find ways to get back on their own feet. The HOPE Project works hard to help people who need it, to find a place they can call home. Jo and Amy also try to support individuals to reconnect with their families and friends and to find a sense of purpose in life. Their outreach service offers hope and friendship with no strings attached to those who have almost nothing.
The ubu staff team and people enabled to live with independence by ubu in Newcastle decided that they wanted to recognise Jo and Amy’s tireless efforts by giving something back to them for all of their endeavours.
“We wanted to give a bit of sparkle to Jo and Amy and so we decided to give them a special treat” says one of the people we serve from Newcastle “We have arranged for them to have a pampering Spa experience at the City Retreat in Jesmond.”
Jo and Amy have been given a voucher which was bought for them with £50 donated by ubu that will give them both a special pampering and back massage session at the spa retreat followed by a lovely afternoon tea to complete their day.
