We are delighted to announce that our fundraising efforts over the last year have helped bring in more than £21,000 for Swale Community Care Project (SCCP), a charity which supports people living in poverty by providing food, clothing and signposting to additional local community services.
The money raised has allowed SCCP to support almost 1,200 people by providing emergency food parcels. This equates to more than 9 tonnes of food and 467 households reached over the course of 2024.
The funds have also helped the charity, in partnership with Sittingbourne and Sheppey Helping Ukraine (SSHU) and Age UK Kent Rivers, open a new community café in Sittingbourne. In just a few months, 350 warm meals have been served to those in need and more than 400 individuals signposted to other local support organisations.
Daniel Marsh, SCCP treasurer, said: “These are very hard times and so many people are struggling to keep their heads above water, particularly during the winter when there are extra financial pressures like increased fuel bills. The money raised by mhs homes will help continue the provision of everyday essential items like pasta and tinned food, community warm space, hot meals, clothing and access to advice and services.
“Charities like ours are a lifeline and this amazing fundraising effort will provide some financial security so we can continue our work growing much-needed support within our local community.”
As mhs homes’ Charity of the Year, a number of fundraising events were organised over the 12 months, including an annual golf day, dragon boat race, charity football match, London-Essex bike ride, and various other raffles and office collections.
We want to make a real difference to the communities we serve. According to SCCP, Swale has one of the highest levels of child, fuel and financial poverty in Kent – approximately 10% of the 150,000+ population.
Ashley Hook, mhs homes’ chief executive, commented: “No one should have to go hungry, but the cost of living crisis means that many people on lower incomes are struggling to make ends meet. As a housing charity, we provide support for our customers through financial grants, and offering help and advice through our own support teams and with our partners in the community.
“Swale Community Care Project make a big impact locally and we are proud to support the critical work they do. A big thank you to all our supporters and partners who gave their time and money to help us reach our fundraising target for such an important cause.”
Our Charity of the Year for 2025 is Child's Vision.
