Double donation from Severn and Trent Oddfellows

Updated: 28 Jan 2025

Severn and Trent Oddfellows, based in Newport, has presented two local charities with £1,000 each to help them continue supporting the community.

A cheque for £1,000 was presented to Emily Bell, CEO of The Shrewsbury Ark, by Gary Hughes, the Oddfellows’ District Chairman.

Help in the community

Emily Bell, from The Shrewsbury Ark, which provides ongoing support and day centre facilities for those who find themselves homeless and vulnerable in Shropshire, said: “We’re hugely grateful to the Severn and Trent Oddfellows for this kind donation. We have just moved into new premises and this donation was perfectly timed to help with the necessary renovations. Without local donations like these, we simply wouldn't be able to provide the ongoing practical and emotional support from our day centre, that so many people rely on.

“With a cost of living crisis looming and winter just around the corner we're already seeing twice as many people coming through our door than last year, so help is needed now more than ever."

A double donation

Severn and Trent Oddfellows donated a further £1,000 to the Newport Cottage Care Centre, to help with its x-ray appeal. The unit is now up and running, with a number of the friendship group’s members having already benefitted from its use.

Nick Tindall, from the Newport League of Friends, said: “We were blown away by the number of local organisations who were able to contribute to our x-ray appeal. With the new unit, we’ll be able to help many more people in Newport and the surrounding areas.”

Commenting on the donations, George Brotherton, Branch Secretary for Severn and Trent Oddfellows, said: “Helping people is at the heart of everything we do. We’re always keen to support local charities as their hard work makes a tangible impact on our local community. We hope these charities are able to use these funds to continue their work.”

The Oddfellows’ Severn and Trent Branch arranges regular social events and fundraising activities in the region for its 811 members, and invites anyone interested in giving the group a try to get in touch. To find out more about Oddfellows membership and to receive a free information pack contact us.

The Oddfellows and its branches regularly fundraise and make donations for good causes, charities and to help its communities. Find out more about how we give back.