Thousands of Pounds raised to support Beds for Kids
A charity is set to provide more than 30 brand new bed kits thanks to the support of a local businessman.
Mark Holland – who is the Managing Director of Holland Construction – recently took part in the iconic Saucony London 10K and has so raised £6,500.
Prior to the race, Mark had never run a 10K distance before, but after meeting Executive Lead of Emmaus North Staffs – John Webbe – at a community event earlier this year – the 60-year-old was determined to help raise more awareness for the charity’s Beds for Kids campaign.
(Image by Mark Holand)
“I’ve been blown away by people’s kindness and the charity has really been taken to people’s hearts,” says Mark.
“When I first met John and got to learn about the charity and their campaign to support local families, I was blown away and it really touched me.
“People I know have also genuinely found it hard to believe of the need for beds on our doorsteps and although we have done so well and reduced the bed list by 30 or more, that still sadly means that around thousands of local children are still without a bed – which is unbelievable.”
Mark added: “I want to keep the story going now and definitely want to continue the relationship with Emmaus North Staffs who are doing great work in our City and surrounding areas.”
Emmaus North Staffs have been providing brand new bed kits – which include a bed, mattress and bedding – to Stoke-on-Trent families since their campaign launched in 2022, with more than 500 bed kits delivered.
John Webbe said: “The number of children who do not have a bed of their own is really quite staggering.
“Figures are still showing approximately 9,000 local children do not have their own bed, therefore help from people like Mark, and those who have supported him with the Saucony London 10K race, is appreciated beyond words – it is a huge help.”
Even though Mark’s race has been completed, his Just Giving Page is still open with donations still continuing to come in.
“Since the race I have more and more people contacting me and asking me how things went and asking about Beds for Kids,” says Mark.
“The donations have not yet stopped which is incredible and we are not far away from reaching a target of £7,000. I cannot thank everyone enough for their kind support which is all helping to make a difference.”
For more details about Mark’s fundraiser please visit https://www.justgiving.com/page/mark-holland-beds
Emmaus North Staffs are based at New Hall Street, in Hanley where their large charity store is open six days a week to the public. Furniture and household donations are also welcome.
For more information about Emmaus North Staffs and Beds for Kids please visit https://emmaus.org.uk/north-staffs/ or telephone 01782 846111.
