“Educating school age children about homelessness and the issues we face locally has a life-long impact. Children can be educated to understand homelessness and are able to support organisations such as Calderwood House now and in the future. We are creating a culture of kindness towards people who are homeless instead of the negative stigma we see in the media and in society.” Rachel Holliday – Time to Change Cumbria/Calderwood House

In 2021 as part of Centre for Leadership’s Bright Stars 2021 scheme, St Bees Village school worked with Time to Change West Cumbria and Business Toolbox Cumbria to raise awareness of homelessness on behalf of Calderwood House.  As part of their campaign, they organised a “Fiesta” with stalls, raffle, waterslide and of course the Calderwood House coffee stand.  The event raised £1600 and huge awareness for Calderwood House.

The money raised was enough to sponsor a bedroom for 12 months.  Which means every homeless person who stays in that room benefits from everything they need to get back on their feet. The St Bees campaign helped raise the profile of Calderwood House and helped the children understand that there are a number of reasons why people become homeless.

“Our ex-resident Keith enjoyed getting to meet the children and spoke about his experience on the streets.  The children were inquisitive, but understanding and compassionate.  Thanks to St Bees school and the Bright Stars programme, you’ve not just changed lives you have saved some too I believe.” Rachel Holliday – Time to Change Cumbria/Calderwood House

“The programme has opened those children’s eyes and ensured that they will look at the world differently from now on. They couldn’t have been prouder to earn enough funds to provide a room in Calderwood for someone in need. As they are our future hopefully they will make the kind of difference that Rachel has made in years to come. Thank you Bright Stars, we loved it!” Sheila Hanson, yr 6 teacher at St Bees Village School