Jonathan Handford, Interim Managing Director of Fine & Country, is marking the 10th anniversary of a tradition close to his heart by participating in TWO Sleep Outs this February.
Through these events, Handford aims to raise vital funds through The Fine & Country Foundation to support local charities focused on homelessness and vulnerable communities.
What began as a grassroots initiative has grown into an annual tradition, with participants coming together to raise awareness and funds for homelessness for the past decade.
At a similar time, the Fine & Country Foundation was born. Over the last ten years, The Foundation has raised over £1,000,000, with the money raised going to support local charities through grants.
SLEEPING ROUGH
Handford says: “Ten years ago, I spent a night sleeping rough on the streets of Leamington Spa.
“At 2am the police rightly asked us to move along from the bandstand – we hadn’t planned it officially or done a risk assessment. But that night marked the start of something incredible.”
To celebrate the 10th Anniversary Handford is doubling his commitment by participating in TWO Sleep Outs this year, one on the 1st of February and the other on the 7th of February.
The events will benefit Helping Hands Community Project and The Esther Project, organisations making a tangible impact in the community.
Helping Hands Community Project supports individuals facing homelessness, mental health challenges, domestic abuse, poverty, addiction and isolation. Their programs help people rebuild their confidence and lead fulfilling lives.
The Esther Project, founded by Lianne Kirkman, provides safe accommodation and support for women in crisis.
Handford adds: “The reason I keep coming back? It’s the overwhelming generosity of others and seeing lives transformed.
“I’ve met people who’ve overcome addiction, found stability, built careers, and most importantly, now have homes and families.”
MAKE IT HAPPEN
He adds: “Everyone deserves a place to call home. Let’s make it happen. Every penny counts.”
The 10th Annual Big Sleep Out will take place at the All Saints Parish Church in Leamington Spa (main picture).
Braving the cold, participants will experience what it’s like to spend a night on the streets, sleeping in cardboard boxes and waterproof sheets.
Soup kitchen-style food will be served in the evening, followed by talks from a variety of speakers.
The event concludes with a Dawn Walk around Leamington, finishing at Helping Hands offices on Althorpe Street for breakfast.
Donate to Jonathan Handford’s Just Giving Sleep Out page HERE.
