APPEALS are being made by businesses to help a women's charity buy a new van after their previous one was stolen.

Teesside’s largest commercial law firm, The Endeavour Partnership are urging local businesses to support Stockton based charity ‘A Way Out’ after their van was stolen.

A Way Out supports vulnerable women, young people and families across Teesside, to enable a life free from harm, abuse and exploitation whilst educating those in need of life limiting choices and behaviour.

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The van is a crucial element of the service, enabling the charity to continue its work, from delivering welfare packages to moving families to safe accommodation.

In one three-month period during the pandemic the van allowed the charity to deliver 414 food and welfare packs across Cleveland.

More so, during a regular week the van supports the delivery of around 22 food parcels and donations to the Liberty Project, 30 wellbeing parcels to the Blossom Project as well as 10 food parcels, all whilst transporting young people to activities to improve their mental health.

The charity used funds raised at a previous International Women’s Day event hosted by The Endeavour Partnership to help cover the running costs of the van.

Since hearing about the theft, the law firm has kindly donated £500 to the charity and are encouraging other local companies to get involved to help the organisation find a permanent mode of transport.

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Lee Bramley, Managing Partner said: “We are shocked and deeply saddened to hear news of the stolen van. The charity is a pillar within the community and the vehicle facilitates life changing work to women and families across Teesside.

“We have supported A Way Out for many years and it is our duty to continue to help them during this time of need.

"We encourage other businesses to help in any way possible to get this charity back on the road again so they can continue with their vital work.”

Speaking on behalf of the charity, Sarah McManus CEO of A Way Out, said: “Any support that can be provided or fundraising to help us replace the van at this very difficult and challenging financial time would be greatly appreciated.”

Businesses wishing to support the charity can contact Sarah McManus via email info@awayout.co.uk or by telephone 01642 655071.

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