To mark 25 years in business, back in November we featured Kingfisher Windows’ MD Paul Beetham when he invited nominations for a special celebratory award. Having created the company from nothing, Paul describes himself as “A Leeds lad doing what he can, who understands how a little support can go a long way.” The company currently claims success as one of the largest within the Yorkshire area to have been trading for a quarter of a century.
Originally planning to give £2,500 to one charity, with the criteria being for a specific project, Paul and his team were touched by the applications, which were all for worthy causes.
It was a difficult choice and in the end the decision was made to increase the value of the donation to £3000, sharing it equally between two excellent organisations.
Saint John of God Hospitaller Services, who provide residential care and respite facilities for people with physical disabilities at Terry Yorath House in Leeds, will receive half the award. The donation will go a long way towards funding the purchase and installation of a new tracking hoist for one of their respite rooms. People can stay up to two weeks at a time, providing a valuable break for families in the area. Christina Medway Steel, Service Manager at Terry Yorath house says, “This will make a life changing difference to people using our service.”
The other beneficiary of the anniversary award is Leeds and District Autism Behaviour and Communication Support Group. The group organises activities such as monthly swims, where the pool is hired out for whole families to use. Being in this relaxed environment enables everyone attending to enjoy activities without any pressure. Known as Leeds ABC, everyone working here provides their time voluntarily. The group is planning its first trip to a Youth Hostel near Whitby in April. Susan McDonagh, Chairperson says “The award will offset the cost of the trip and allow us to offer subsidies to more families.”
A representative from Kingfisher Windows will be invited to return to Terry Yorath House to view the hoist when it is operational. We look forward to sharing the photos from Leeds ABC’s trip to Whitby with our readers soon.
