Members and sponsors of the Cleaning & Hygiene Suppliers Association (CHSA), together with their guests, raised over £8,000 at the Association’s Annual Gala Ball for the Chairman’s Charity, Grief Encounter.
Grief Encounter supports bereaved children and their families to help alleviate the pain caused by the death of someone close.
CHSA Chairman, Stephen Harrison, said: “We set the goal of raising £10,000 this year to pay for a Residential Retreat for up to 30 bereaved children. Thanks to the generosity of our members and their guests we are now well on the way.”
One in 29 children in the UK under the age of 16 will suffer the death of a parent. Rebuilding a new life after the death of a loved one is hard for everyone, but especially for children and young people. Once the shock and trauma of a life changing event has been managed, finding a way to move forward must begin. Children have an overwhelming sense of confusion, fear and anxiety, alongside their grief, which must be cared for in order for them to continue into adulthood with a sense of confidence and long lasting happiness.
The Annual Gala Ball, held at The Belfry in the West Midlands, offered members the opportunity to connect with friends and colleagues in the industry in a relaxed and enjoyable environment. Alongside the dinner, the evening was packed with entertainment including a set by award-winning comedian Rod Woodward. The evening was compered by CHSA Vice President and former Chairman, Jeff Bell.
David Garcia, Vice President of the CHSA and the driving force behind the Gala Ball, explained: “The Gala Ball is always a highlight event, bringing together some of our members and their guests. A particular mention must go to Linda Belcher who runs our Secretariat so brilliantly. Linda’s typical hard work and creativity made this evening another special and memorable event.
“Putting something back is at the heart of our ethos. A huge thank you to all our members and guests who contributed on the night and to our sponsors who made the whole event possible.”
