At Break we have been working hard during the crisis to safeguard our charity and continue to support all those we work with. Our young people in our services continue to do really well and I have to say that some have actually thrived in this period – the lack of to and from school transitions (especially for the young people in our disability services) has meant that each day they can focus on life learning and some of the stress is lessened. We have been able to continue to provide love and stability in some of the most uncertain times.
We are slowly getting back on our feet and have just had the most amazing first three weeks of trading in our shops. Although very down on our pre-Covid performance – we are so overwhelmed with our loyal supporters coming back to our shops with their lockdown clear outs and a willingness to shop with us once again. We open our third and final wave of shops on the 20th July. Our shops are essential in Break being able to offer the wide range of added value services; the exciting activities for young people with disabilities that ensure they have the same opportunities as everyone else; the therapy sessions that help heal the trauma experienced form early childhood abuse; and the lifelong support that is offered to all Break young people – because we all need a familiar someone to call on sometimes.
One young person, Curtis, has been able to get involved in his local community, volunteering to shop and dog walk and support vulnerable locals who cannot do what they would do in normal times. He is on furlough from his hospitality job and wants to do things to keep himself busy and to give back. He is resilient and has had his confidence built up over many years of being supported by Break. At 21, he is soon to move on from our project, but we will stay in touch with him (like any family would) until he no longer needs us.
We are planning a range of fundraising activities to support our recovery, and to continue to support young people like Curtis.
I have been challenged by my Leadership Team to lead from the front and do something out of my comfort zone. That something is to dye my hair flamingo pink for one month! This is happening on the 12th July and I am happy to share before and after photos.
https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/rachel-cowdry-pink
Could you challenge yourself to “Break” free from your comfort zone? If you want to find out more, get in touch with us at [email protected].