An aptly named charity – Doorways Derby, founded in 2015 by Craig and Lisa Wheatley are a group of community volunteers who dedicate several evenings in each week to go out into the streets of the City to provide a meal, drink and a packed lunch for the following day to homeless and vulnerable people.
They also provide social interaction which to some may be the most important thing of all. Their motto is “ Be somebody who makes everybody feel like a somebody “
From an initial 15 or so targeted individuals, by the end of 2015 they had around 60 people receiving help and now that number is around 100.
Operating on 3 nights every week Doorways Derby open their pop-up street kitchen in Full Street, Derby. They are supported by a very willing team of helpers, a generous Facebook base and a number of local businesses who donate end of day food items.
Recently registered as a charitable organisation (1182774) they were, earlier this year, presented with a cheque for £150 by the JMLEF group (co-founded by Derbyshire Freemasons John Morrisen – Hartington Lodge 1085 and Martyn Maxted – Dale Abbey in Erewash Lodge 5603)
The Derbyshire Provincial Grand Charity heard about this donation and immediately suggested that JMLEF applied for match funding, effectively doubling the donation. This enabled John and Martyn to present a further cheque for £150 which was gratefully received by Craig and Lisa.
If you can help they will be glad to hear from you – you can donate any of the following:
- Coffee
- Tea
- Hot Chocolate
- Food
- Sleeping Bags
- Clothing
- Toiletries
Or you could offer some time and help them to make a difference. You can contact them by e-mail on doorways2015@gmail.com or telephone: 07754 128763. You can visit their website on this link.
