A Despatch and Stock Controller at one of the UK’s leading commercial nurseries in Hereford took part in a sleep out and helped raise £1,599.89 for a homeless charity.

Sara Bowie, who works at Wyevale Nurseries, participated in the annual fundraiser in Bristol with eight of her friends in aid of 1625 Independent People (1625ip).

The 55-year-old, who lives in Norton Canon but grew up in Bristol, explained: “1625ip is a Bristol based charity that has been supporting homeless 16-25-year-olds for more than 30 years. It works with around 2,000 young people in the South West every year.

“This was my second time in taking part in the sleep out. It took place at the Lloyds Amphitheatre on Explore Lane in Bristol. It was a really cold night and it did rain too. Now having spent two nights sleeping rough it has giving me the smallest taste of what it’s like for someone who has to sleep out in the cold.

“1625ip gives young people options, options to learn skills, find somewhere to live, help with mental health issues, soft skills and job opportunities. 

“I am delighted that I managed to raise a staggering £1,599.89 for 1625ip. A huge ‘thank you’ to everyone who sponsored me. All the money raised goes to help this great charity and our wish to eradicate homelessness from our streets.”

Sara got to know about the charity and its work as her friend, Jo Lea-Jones, is the Finance Director at the organisation. Sara was part of The Pink Ladies sleep out team with eight of her friends and in total they managed to raise £7,838.87.

Sara added: “£10 provides an hour of mental health support, £20 pays for a young person to attend a life skills session and £50 funds a start-up kit to help them on their way to living independently. We need to break the circle of homelessness and help these vulnerable young people.”

1625ip provides essential services to young people and partners with agencies across the South West so together they can change lives. 

The charity provides a broad range of care for young people from securing homes, teaching life-skills, offering advice, helping access training and job opportunities. Its aim is to help young people to live happily and independently. 

To sponsor Sara, please visit http://bit.ly/32CgiUX.