Colleagues from 16 Tesco stores have been supporting Framework for the last 18 months including Nottingham’s annual Big Sleep Out event aimed at helping support homelessness.
The fearless fundraisers, made up of different organisations including Cubs, Brownies and schools spent a night under the stars at Nottingham Racecourse, helping the charity Framework to spread the word about the deprivations experienced by those who are homeless.
Darren Print, Store Manager at Tesco Nottingham Toton Tesco Extra, said: “Framework’s Big Sleep Out event was a huge success, and we want to thank all involved in the community for coming down and helping raise much-needed funds.
“Framework are doing some incredible work to help tackle homelessness, assist those who need support across the Midlands, and we look to supporting their efforts throughout the year.
“The charity has helped educate many of us here at Tesco on the various reasons why people may become homeless and the stigma and stereotypes around these reasons.
“There is a huge misconception as to why people end up on the streets, and our first-hand experience with Framework has changed our perceptions. The fact is, homelessness can truly happen to anyone.
The annual event provided fundraisers with food and entertainment, including a Queen tribute act, street food and an outdoor cinema.
They were also given a range of materials to build shelters for the night, providing them with an insight into the lives of those who have to do it regularly.
In the evening there was a light-hearted awards ceremony for best shelter and a breakfast the following morning donated by the team at Tesco.
In the run-up to the event, the Tesco colleagues from Express and Superstores such as Toton Extra, Borewell and Top Valley helped promote it. A Tesco Framework van promoting the event was also displayed in front of stores, alongside flyers and posters throughout the cluster of stores.
Earlier this year Tesco stores throughout Nottingham donated an ex-Tesco fleet van to Framework to support homelessness in the area and help the charity with the delivery of essential goods.
Framework is a charity that delivers housing, health, employment as well as various support and care services to people with a diverse range of needs across the East Midlands. The charity helps around 18,000 people each year and provides individuals in need with support as well as offering skills and education.
To find out more about Framework and the Big Sleep Out campaign, visit https://www.frameworkha.org/sleepout