We are delighted to announce that we have received a generous £1,000 donation from Oxford United’s Dreaming Spires project, a key initiative designed to deliver meaningful positive change across Oxfordshire.
The donation will support our Healthy Hearts programme, which offers a variety of weekly movement sessions for our companions, aimed at improving physical and mental wellbeing. These activities include yoga, football, swimming, ice skating, boxing, personal training, walking, and cycling. Thanks to this funding, we’ll be able to provide essential sports clothes and equipment, making it easier for our companions to participate and enjoy the full benefits of the programme.
Laura Bristow, our Fundraising Manager, shared: “This funding has given our Healthy Hearts programme a real boost and will directly help deliver positive outcomes.
“People experiencing homelessness battle significant health inequalities, including having an average age of death that’s around 30 years lower than the general population. Many of our companions have been homeless for significant periods in their lives and most struggle with some physical health condition because of that experience. That’s why Oxford United’s support is vital and we’d like to say a big thank you to the Club for its generous support.”
Oxford United’s Chief Commercial and Marketing Officer, Adam Benson, also added “Emmaus Oxford is a fantastic organisation that makes a significant positive impact on the lives of those affected by homelessness in the city.
“As a community club, we’re passionate about encouraging people to get active for their mental and physical health, so supporting the Emmaus Oxford team aligned with our values.”
The funding was part of a broader effort by Oxford United’s Dreaming Spires project to support ten Oxfordshire-based not-for-profits that champion sport, physical activity, and wellbeing. Each of these organisations received a £1,000 grant following a rigorous selection process to demonstrate their community impact.
We would like to say a huge thank you to Oxford United for their generous donation helping to support our Healthy Hearts programme for companions rebuilding their life after experiencing homelessness.