NORTH East employees have helped Miller Homes exceed the half way point of its pledge to raise £100,000 for international development charity Habitat for Humanity this year.
So far, the leading housebuilder has raised over £73,000 thanks to taking part in a range of fundraising activities since the start of 2016.
A significant contribution to the company’s fundraising pot is expected to come from the North East ‘Habitat charity house’ at its Portland Wynd development in Blyth. The cost of time in labour from the build of this new Miller home, which will be constructed to the high standards typical of a Miller home and overseen by the development’s award-winning site manager John Harrison, will be donated to the overall total.
Two representatives from Miller Homes North East will also be joining 14 colleagues from Miller Homes across the UK on Habitat for Humanity’s Global Village Trip to Malawi in September, to create new ‘Habitat Homes’ for orphans and vulnerable children.
In addition, employees from the region have taken part in a quiz night, a golf day, and a staff BBQ, as well as preparing to host a charity ball.
Taking place on Friday 28 October at the Marriott Hotel in Gosforth, the charity ball will carry an African theme, where guests will enjoy a red carpet entrance and drinks reception, followed by a three course meal and a disco, with exotic entertainment throughout the evening including fire eaters, snake charmers and African dancers and musicians.
Colleagues from Miller Homes across the UK have also greatly contributed to the company’s fundraising efforts by taking on the London and Edinburgh marathons, a bike-a-thon with employees cycling the length of the UK, bake sales, race nights and Tough Mudder, with other activities planned throughout the remainder of the year.
Patrick Arkle, operations director at Miller Homes North East, said: “There is a lot of activity going on across the company to help raise funds for Habitat for Humanity, and it’s no different here in the North East. We are underway with the build of the Habitat charity house and have been overwhelmed by the generosity of our contractors and would like to thank them for their support, which will hugely impact the region’s contribution to the company’s overall fundraising efforts for the charity.”
Chris Endsor, chief executive of Miller Homes, said: “I am delighted to see how our team has pulled together to raise well over half of the amount we pledged for Habitat for Humanity as we pass the half way mark in our year-long fundraising campaign. Everyone has really pulled together for this fantastic charity and I believe our efforts and contributions will make a massive difference to those living in poverty housing.”
Manuela Campbell, head of volunteering and supporter services at Habitat for Humanity GB, said: “We have been very impressed by the support and commitment from Miller Homes to help end poverty housing across the world. We are immensely grateful for this support and delighted to see what has already been achieved this year, as well as what is planned for the second half of the year.”
Habitat for Humanity creates safe and secure homes for those living in poverty in over 70 countries worldwide. Its work helps to lift people out of poverty and restores their independence. The funds raised by Miller Homes will help to build over 30 ‘Habitat Homes’.
To support Miller Homes North East’s fundraising efforts for Habitat for Humanity donate at https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/malawimillerhomesNE.
To purchase tickets for Miller Homes North East’s charity ball, which are priced at £60 per person, and £600 for a table of up to 10 guests, contact Emma Bartle by emailing Emma.Bartle@miller.co.uk.