Andrea and Sui-Ling go to mixed-ability rugby in Leighton Buzzard most weeks and they often have a chat about things that matter to them.
Concern for people who are homeless
Sui-Ling was talking about how many times she sees people rough sleeping in the streets. It’s something she really cares passionately about. She worries about people who are homeless, especially when it’s so cold, as it has been this winter, and wanted to do something.
Finding Unity MK
The conversation gave Andrea an idea. When she comes through Milton Keynes station, she sees a sign for a charity called Unity MK. They provide help for people who are homeless.
Sui-Ling and Andrea decided to find out more. They phoned up and then went to visit Unity MK. They learned about the amazing work the charity does, supporting people with wellbeing and mental health support, supplying practical help such as providing food and drink, clothing, access to showers and laundry facilities.
This seemed like a great potential partnership, something that people at MacIntyre could help with.
Collecting necessities
Sui-Ling suggested we start by putting out a call for warm clothing and sleeping bags that could be donated to Unity MK. She worked with colleagues Jo and Tess to put together a poster, and put out the request at our office and nearby locations including the café at Great Holm, with a deadline of 20 January.
Such generosity
Well people were so generous! Cosy clothes, sleeping bags, toiletries and lots of other donations came pouring in. Once everything was gathered together, Sui-Ling helped deliver everything to Unity MK, who were delighted.
Sui-Ling said:
It’s not fair that people don’t have homes to go to or warm clothes. I wanted to do something.
Unity MK told us:
Thank you so, so much for the donations, I have only just finished putting them out and there is so much wonderful stuff! Love the MacIntyre socks!
A continuing partnership
Everyone agreed this was just the start of working together, as it was just a great partnership between MacIntyre and Unity MK, so we have a lot of plans for the rest of the year, including a sponsored sleep-out
