This year we’ve been celebrating 60 years of IFF. And, as the old adage goes, it’s better to give than receive. So, linked with our value of making a difference, we decided to use the occasion to give back in a meaningful way by supporting our charity partner Single Homeless Project (SHP).
When we spoke to SHP about how we could best help, they mentioned an ongoing need for care packages for their clients. So, with a list of essentials and a few ‘luxury items’ in hand, team members pledged contributions, which were then topped up by IFF. Together, we created 60 packages for people experiencing homelessness in London—one for each year of IFF.
Keen to go beyond financial support, last week, ten IFFers spent the day refreshing the foyer area of one of their services, which supports residents facing multiple disadvantages and with additional support needs.
“Volunteering at SHP was a special opportunity to get to know my colleagues in a different way whilst doing something meaningful and impactful. It was really great to be able to chat to the people working at SHP and learn about the important work they do and gain new perspectives on some of the research that we conduct. And surprisingly enough, researchers are not half bad at painting!”
Eva, Research Executive
Their foyer area acts as a first point of contact for many residents, so we wanted to help create a light, warm environment to make people feel welcome from the moment they walk in.
Following a quick briefing and with coffees brewed, the team rolled up their sleeves up and got down to the task at hand of transforming the foyer with fresh paint, colour, and care. There was a real sense of teamwork and effort throughout the day, even with the sweltering June heat presenting a challenge!
By the end, the space looked brighter, cleaner, and more inviting—and we left feeling proud of what we’d managed to accomplish in such a short time. It was particularly rewarding knowing that even though the task might seem trivial, we contributed to renewing an area of the building which is part of that crucial first impression. And for people experiencing homelessness, who can often feel invisible, it helps them feel valued and affirms the care that they’ll receive.
“It was rewarding to be part of bringing a vision to life and to deepen my understanding of the impact SHP’s work is having. Working with their people offered meaningful glimpses into real stories, serving as a reminder of how we can continue supporting efforts to reduce homelessness in London.”
Jess, People Assistant
We also felt really pleased with our chosen charity partner for this year. SHP demonstrate such genuine care for their clients, living up to their pledge of helping Londoners leave homelessness behind, to be seen, to be heard, and find a place to call home.
“SHP provides vital support to those experiencing homelessness, so it was really satisfying to make a meaningful contribution to one of their support spaces.”
Matt, Communications Manager
