Building firm hands over £1,000 to Hartlepool People Centre

The charity, that supports and trains vulnerable people, has been given the cash by builder Persimmon Homes Teesside to help the centre provide education, leisure and specialised services to thousands of people a year.

The centre receives more than 2,000 visits per month and is a social outlet for people living in isolation and a support service to victims of crime, those with low self-esteem and confidence as well as those who are educationally or emotionally challenged.

The money is part of the builder’s Community Champions scheme - a £24,000 fund to help support local clubs, groups and good causes.

Gordon Lathan, from the Hartlepool People Centre, said: “We are delighted to have received this donation from Persimmon Homes as funding is vital if we are to continue.

“The money will contribute to our core costs, which are supported by a team of volunteers. We are a base for so many vulnerable community members and it would be a real shame if the centre was to close.”

Joan Peart, from Persimmon Homes Teesside, said: “This funding will help the Hartlepool People Centre continue with its diverse range of courses and activities that individuals and groups rely on.

“The centre plays such an important role within the local community and we are only too pleased to support them.

“We now want to hear from more groups and charities as we look to allocate more funding.

“All we ask is that they have already worked hard to raise money themselves, and we will then match this effort with funding of up to £1,000.”

To apply visit www.persimmonhomes.com/charity.