I always said that if I managed to get a place through the ballot for the VLM I'd try to raise a few quid for charity along the way. On my fifth attempt, someone at VLM HQ obviously took pity on me and slipped my name onto the list. So here we are!

I've decided that I'd like to raise some money for the Society of St James. This is a Hampshire charity that works with homelessness and believes that everyone has a right to a home.

“We believe that people should be given the opportunity to develop the skills they need to lead a fulfilling life. We believe that everyone deserves not just a second chance, or a third chance, but as many chances as they need to change their lives for the better.”

Each year I become more and more aware of the homeless in our city and this charity does fantastic work in providing support and accommodation to 2500 people across Hampshire every year.

It's cold out there. It's still winter. We're not yet done with the minus temperatures and frosty mornings and some people aren't lucky enough to have a roof over their head.

It would mean so much to me, especially considering the time of year,  if you could donate a pound or two to this fantastic cause. I know it'll spur my legs on come April.

£30 can pay for a night in the SSJ hostel for someone coming in off the streets.

£5 can buy a healthy meal for someone without a home.

£1 can buy 30 cups of coffee. 

You lovely lot will be making a real difference to local, vulnerable people.

All the best,

Aniek

(Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity. So it’s the most efficient way to donate – saving time and cutting costs for the charity.)