We held a Thank You and Information evening at First Base Day Centre last Wednesday to thank our incredible community of supporters who keep First Base running. It was a great opportunity to talk about the crucial work that First Base and its staff do to support people experiencing homelessness.
Attendees included regular donors who give monthly to directly support the service, representatives from other charitable organisations, businesses and contractors who work with our services, Brighton and Hove City Councillors and commissioners and neighbours to First Base.
After taking the opportunity to network with the vast array of guests, Chief Executive, Daivd Chaffey, and Chair of the Board, Kelvin MacDonald, took to the mic to share their pride for First Base. Guy Hayes, Operational Manager of First Base, then detailed the integral day to day work that he and his team accomplish every day.
Following the formation of our partnership this year, Hedley Swain, CEO of Brighton & Hove Museums spoke about the fascinating history of St. Stephen’s Hall, home of First Base, and the links it has with Brighton Pavilion. To hear this history whilst being in the very building being spoken about brought history to life.
The most affecting talk of the evening was from Paul, a client of First Base, who bravely shared his story. He had sadly lost his job and was sleeping in his car when he approached First Base for help. He was surprised to find that not only could he have a hot meal at the centre, but he could do his laundry, charge his phone, shower and brush his teeth, have health check ups and, importantly, receive support to access safe accommodation. Paul no longer lives in his car and speaks so highly of the support he received at First Base.
Following the emotional talk from Paul, attendees enjoyed canapes, entered the raffle and bought Christmas cards. Both the raffle and the sale of Christmas cards were raising money for First Base and collectively made £880! We are grateful to the local businesses who donated prizes, and to local artists who continually contribute pieces for our annual Christmas cards.
Thank you to everyone who made the night a great success. We are hoping to be able to open the doors to First Base more frequently to share the lifechanging work we do here.
