They will be working with us over the next 12 months to raise awareness of youth homelessness in the West Midlands, as well as supporting us with volunteering and fundraising.
Shirley Ladies Circle is a local branch of the national Ladies Circle, a modern, vibrant club for women aged 18 to 45. It has hundreds of members across the United Kingdom, and Europe and aims to offer the best opportunity for young women to connect with each other, have a great time and give something back to their community.
Pooja Jalota-Jones, pictured, chair of Shirley Ladies Circle, said;
“Tonight, and every night, thousands of homeless young people go to sleep feeling scared and alone. St Basils works with young people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness in the West Midlands.
Being a mum to two teenagers, I fully appreciate how vulnerable young people are and how they need nurturing, support, and guidance. I want to be involved in helping young people find safety and comfort, and so as Shirley Circle chair, I chose St Basils as my charity this year. I’m looking forward to working with St Basils and making a positive difference to the lives of some vulnerable young people.”
Barrie Hodge, head of fundraising, for St Basils said;
“We are absolutely thrilled to have the support of Shirley ladies circle as our charity partners, the pandemic and the rise in the cost of living have had a huge impact on many vulnerable young people and our vital services are needed more than ever, it costs us £5 a night in additional funding to house a young person at risk every night, the funds raised by the Shirley Ladies Circle will enable us to continue to support more vulnerable people in need.”
The fundraising initiative kicks off from 13th-14th May with the Shirley Beer and Cider Festival. The festival is back after a two-year break and this year is set to be the biggest yet. In the past, the event has raised thousands of pounds for local charities and people in need within the local area. All profits from the festival are fed into the Shirley ladies circle and the Shirley Round Table Charitable Trust. To find out more about the festival go to shirleybeerfestival.co.uk
To find out more about Ladies Circle, your nearest branch and how to join an open, inclusive, and exciting club that can’t wait to welcome you, visit their website ladiescircle.co.uk
