Record-breaking fundraising at Barratt & David Wilson Homes Charity Dinner
Barratt and David Wilson Homes’ Charity Dinner raised £187,000 for Saints Foundation, supporting their life-changing programmes including work with disabled people, over 65s, and those suffering with mental health issues.
For the third year running, Barratt and David Wilson Homes Southampton’s Charity Dinner brought together guests from across the construction industry and beyond for an evening of fundraising at St Mary’s Stadium.
Hosted by comedian Mike Osman, the evening’s special guest was Soccer Saturday’s Paul Merson, who crossed local derby lines to attend the fundraiser at the home of his former club Portsmouth FC’s arch-rivals, Southampton.
The night raised an incredible £187,000, a record-breaking total for the Hampshire housebuilder who has fundraised for Saints Foundation for the past three years. Their vital funds will be used by the charity to help people living in the city lead fulfilled, happier and healthier lives.
The life-changing impact of their work was shown when their participant turned project officer Jake Plummer took to the stage to tell his story. Having learnt crucial life skills on Saints Works, Jake has since worked his way up to lead the delivery of the charity’s employability programme, helping young people like himself to fulfil their potential and find their way in the world of work. You can watch Jake's incredible story below.
Glen O’Nion, Finance Director Barratt & David Wilson Homes, said: “We pride ourselves on building thriving communities for people to live and work. We understand the importance of being on the ground in the areas we build in and we see how organisations like the Saints Foundation make a big difference to so many people’s lives. It is our pleasure to do what we can to support them.”
Jazz Bhatti, Saints Foundation Fundraising and Partnerships Manager, said: “This year’s fundraiser raised a breath-taking total, that surpassed even our wildest expectations.
“Thanks to the generosity of Barratt & David Wilson Homes and everyone who attended this year’s dinner, we will be able to help thousands of people who need support here in Southampton. Their contribution is vital and will help us change Southampton for the better – from all of us here at Saints Foundation, thank you.”
James Dunne, Managing Director of BDW Southampton Division, said: “What an incredible amount of money raised for a charity which is providing such an important service to local people.
“We’ve worked with Saints Foundation for a long time have seen first-hand the work they do in the community, and we’re thrilled to be able to contribute such a significant sum.”
