Poole grammar school raises thousands for YMCA Bournemouth

Parkstone pupils and staff camped out in cardboard shelters for the cause

Author: Faye TryhornPublished 1st Jun 2023

Students and teachers from Poole's Parkstone Grammar School have raised more than £8,500 from YMBCA Bournemouth.

The girls and staff took part in one of the charity's Sleep Easy events, spending a night in cardboard shelters for the cause.

Rosie Moore, Pastoral Head of Sixth Form at Parkstone Grammar said:

“It was fantastic to see more than 100 of our students and staff turn out to support our fundraising efforts. We believe we have a responsibility as a local organisation to support others who give so much back to our communities.

“Such events provide an opportunity for our students to better understand and appreciate the meaningful difference charities like YMCA Bournemouth make in our local area. I am very proud of all the staff and students who supported us this year, allowing us to contribute towards YMCA Bournemouth’s fantastic work.”

The Sleep Easy events have raised over £100,000 for the charity in the last five years - the next is being held in October.

Last year, the charity supported 175 individuals in the BCP area.

Sheena Dayman, Events Manager at YMCA Bournemouth said:

“It’s wonderful to see local schools supporting our Sleep Easy initiative by hosting their own events and engaging their communities by encouraging donations.

“The funding raised from local Sleep Easy events helps us continue supporting those who are homeless by providing a temporary, safe place to live alongside a range of services including counselling, health, and fitness. Our goal is to help them achieve independent living and secure a safe, positive long-term future.

“The support of local schools, businesses and other organisations will always play a key role in our fundraising efforts, and we want to thank Parkstone Grammar School and many other local contributors who continue to take part in these fundraising initiatives.”

First for all the latest news from across the UK every hour on Hits Radio on DAB, at hitsradio.co.uk and on the Rayo app.