Soaring for a Cause: Community Daredevils Raise Thousands for Homelessness Charity

The Bridge (East Midlands), a leading charity in preventing and relieving homelessness, sent seven super supporters on an exhilarating skydive fundraiser. The group leapt from a dizzying 15000ft at Langar Airport last weekend, raising almost £5000.

Since 1995 The Bridge has been working throughout Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland to provide free, non-judgmental support to anybody who needs housing advice or support; recently expanding some services to meet county-wide demand, the money raised by fundraisers allows them to reach more people facing homelessness, before crisis point.

Langar Airport was the perfect backdrop for the event, offering panoramic views of the stunning East Midlands countryside as the fundraisers fell through the clouds. While three staff members took part, The Bridge were proud to sign up supporters from local businesses, too.

Speaking of their leap of faith, Gill Wardhaugh, who works in youth homelessness prevention at The Bridge, said:

“When the opportunity was offered to do a parachute jump to raise both awareness and money for The Bridge I ‘jumped’ at the chance. It was scary, but I knew that my fear would pass. I chose this: but many people have no choice but to live in fear: not knowing where they will sleep tonight or if they’ll I be safe, will they be evicted…

“Homelessness is a growing issue in our community. Events like this not only raise vital funds but also spread the work about our charities work."

And every jump counts: all of the funds raised will directly support The Bridge's essential services including housing and landlord advice, youth homelessness prevention, outreach for rough sleepers, support for men on probation who are at risk of homelessness, and much more.

It comes at a time where charities such as The Bridge are feeling real pressure to meet demand. In 2023 Shelter statistics, the East Midlands suffered the sharpest rise in homelessness in the UK: an enormous 33% annual increase. This deepening problem is mirrored by The Bridge’s referrals, which rose by 19% last year.

“To see the dedication of our staff and supporters in taking this leap was incredible. It is not secret that times are incredibly tough for many households, and this is reflected in the amount of people reaching out for our support,” added Nash Chhatralia, CEO of The Bridge.

“It’s fantastic to know that people care about our mission: everybody deserves a safe, secure home, and these donations will help us in making that a reality. We’re so proud of this group; they have raised over £4700, and we still have another jump to do in the coming weeks which will hopefully tip us over five thousand.

"Together, we can make a real difference in the lives of those facing homelessness."

To get involved, find out more about The Bridge, or to support help local people out of housing crisis by donating online, visit The Bridge’s website.

To see the campaign and all our skydivers, click here!