We are pleased to announce that Smurfit Kappa are funding one of our Supported Independence Flats – for an entire year!
The Aldershot-based packaging solutions company are a new corporate partner for Step by Step. They were keen to sponsor a project in their local community. Supported Independence Flats provide accommodation for young people who would otherwise be homeless, offering a degree of independent living but with specialised support on-hand if needed. The idea is to prepare young people for self-sufficient living.
The flat, based in our Aldershot Foyer, was visited by Nina Langler, Sales Office Manager, and Matt Norgate, Sales Manager, who unveiled the plaque on behalf of Smurfit Kappa. Nina commented: “We are very happy to be able to support such a worthwhile cause in our community. We think it’s amazing what Step by Step do. The lifeline and support they offer young people is a vital service.”
Each of Step by Step’s Supported Independence Flats accommodates four young people at any one time. Because the flats do not rely on local authority funding, they can help young people who are not eligible for statutory support and who might otherwise fall through the net.
Jayne Bristow, Step by Step Corporate Fundraiser, commented: “The support from Smurfit Kappa has been amazing. Sponsoring an entire flat for the year will allow us to help many young people facing homelessness, as well as supporting them with their mental health and life skills, and allowing them to reach their full potential.”
A huge thank you to the team at Smurfit Kappa for their generosity and the positive impact they will have on many young lives.
Mike found himself homeless on Christmas Eve at just 19 years old. There would have been very few options available to him if not for Step by Step's Supported Independence Flats. He went from homeless to housed in just one hour.
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