BGF, one of the leading growth capital investors in the UK and Ireland, has successfully gathered over £11,000 in donations for the homelessness charity Simon on the Streets through their participation in the Northumberland Coastal Walk. The charity, based in West Yorkshire, provides essential assistance to individuals experiencing rough sleeping, sofa surfing, and precarious housing situations in Leeds and Bradford.
The generous contribution to Simon on the Streets came as a result of the efforts of nine employees from BGF’s Leeds office. On Thursday, 13th July, they undertook the challenging 27-mile walk from Warkworth Castle to Bamburgh Castle. The funds raised so far have exceeded £11,000, and BGF has pledged to match all the contributions made by its employees.
Supporting Simon on the Streets aligns with BGF’s commitment to charitable causes in 2023. As part of the BGF Foundation, an independent charitable foundation established last year and funded by BGF, the aim is to support smaller charities with annual incomes ranging from £500,000 to £3 million.
Chris Boyes, who participated in the walk and is an investor at BGF, said:
“We’re excited to support such an amazing charity, which provides a vital role in supporting vulnerable people in West Yorkshire. It was also an opportunity for the offices in Leeds and Newcastle to come together to support a common cause and the Castle to Castle Walk was a great opportunity to bring everyone together.
“The team faced chilly winds, driving rain and plenty of blisters, but we are delighted to raise an impressive amount for Simon On The Streets.
“Thank you to all of our sponsors who kindly donated to support our fundraising and we look forward to continuing with our charitable endeavours in the future.”
Simon on the Streets’ senior fundraiser, Andy Sharpe who took on the walk with BGF, commented:
“We’re incredibly grateful to BGF for their generous support and commitment to the charity. It was a privilege to join their fantastic team in Northumberland for the walk and share the amazing experience with them.”