Charity on the march to help ex-Army vets

WAR veteran Phil (seated) with Debbie White (VOTS), Gary Curley (Impact Construction) and Amanda Wood (VOTS)

AN organisation supporting ex-Army veterans has launched a fundraising appeal to raise £5,000 to secure charity status.

Veterans Off The Streets (VOTS) will host a cabaret charity dinner on May 27 which they hope will boost their funds and enable them to expand.

VOTS formed in March as a not-for-profit group to provide formerly homeless veterans with free accommodation and work opportunities.

To register as a charity the team, made up of only six volunteers, must have an annual income of more than £5,000.

Organiser and fundraiser Debbie White said: "We are a team of people who want to help veterans get off the streets and earn a living.

"We would like to be a charity so we can open a café and charity shop. We also feel we would be more accepted as a registered charity.

"This is a hugely important cause and we are hoping for a good turn out at the fundraising event.

"With your help we can make a difference to the lives of soldiers and ex-soldiers."

Since launching two months ago, VOTS have housed four ex-military individuals including one referral from national charity Walking With The Wounded (WWTW).

The team also take donations to provide warm clothing and refreshments to the homeless on the streets of Manchester city centre.

The Chronicle previously reported that VOTS had helped former catering manager and ex-army veteran Phil off the streets and into their free accommodation in Royton.

A Just Giving page has been set up to raise £1,100 ­- the equivalent of two months' rent ­- to provide free accommodation until residents are able to secure work.

But first and foremost the team is appealing to Oldhamers to attend their charity dinner at Tara Leisure, Shaw, on May 27.

Impact co-director Gary Curley, who helped set up VOTS, said: "Please help and support us so we can help and support them."

Live entertainment will be provided at the cabaret event, complete with a three-course meal and fundraising games hosted by MC Michael 'Braddy' Bradshaw.

Debbie has been gathering donations from cinemas, food outlets, beauty and hair salons, and bowling alleys to raffle off on the night. Tickets at £35 each or £240 for a table of eight can be bought from Debbie on 07954 406625 or Mark on 07595 893 819.