York-based charity, The Island, which supports some of the most disadvantaged children and young people across the area, has received a £25,000 donation from local housebuilder, Barratt Developments.
In York, over 3,500 children live in poverty, which is almost seven times higher than the national average. Through positive mentoring, unique programmes and unwavering support, The Island supports vulnerable and isolated children and young people, and encourages them to realise their potential. The charity’s vision is to support, guide and positively influence the lives of every single young person in York, regardless of their socio-economic circumstances or life experiences.
The £25,000 donation from Barratt Developments, whose Yorkshire East Division is located in York, will go towards supporting more than 35 new children and young people, enabling them to benefit from valuable 1:1 mentoring relationships sessions. With each session lasting between one to two hours, this quality time will make a huge difference in their lives, enabling them to gain confidence, resilience and improve their self-esteem.
Barratt Developments Yorkshire East Division is also proud to have joined The Island’s Business Club; an initiative which enables all York businesses and organisations to discuss corporate responsibility within the area, draw upon volunteering opportunities within the charity, and also discuss further financial donations to support The Island where possible.
Nigel Poulton, CEO of The Island, commented: “Thank you so much to Barratt Developments for choosing The Island for such a significant donation. Their generosity will help us to provide crucial mentoring partnerships for vulnerable children and young people across the York area, and we have also received a significant amount of office furniture, which has been greatly appreciated by our team members! It’s incredible to see the mentoring relationships flourish as trust is established, potential is unlocked and new skills are gained, all working towards our overall aim of making their dreams become possibilities. We are also working towards the creation of a new facility, which will act as a state-of-the-art youth centre, and will offer support to every child and young person within the city.”
Daniel Smith, Managing Director at Barratt Developments Yorkshire East, said: “We’re so pleased that we’ve been able to support The Island with this donation. The work they do in the York area is truly incredible, and has a huge impact directly on children’s and young people’s lives. We look forward to continuing our work with them and supporting them as they continue to change lives for the better.”
