J Tomlinson has been egg-stra busy recently, collecting and donating Easter eggs to benefit local good causes.

For the past two years, the company’s regeneration division has assisted Ashfield Federation of Tenants and Residents Association with their Annual Easter Event, which takes place at Sherwood Court – an age-exclusive housing scheme for the over 60s. This well-attended event is just one of many organised by Ashfield FTRA, and is open to both Sherwood Court residents and the wider community, and sees everyone involved take part in a raffle to win Easter eggs donated by J Tomlinson’s regeneration department and various subcontractors.

However, J Tomlinson was inundated with donations this year, and has decided to use the surplus eggs to benefit another good cause: Sure Start – a government-led initiative whose mission is to give every child ‘the best possible start in life’.

Statistics collated over the past twelve months show that the number of under 5’s living in poverty in the Ashfield area (including Kirkby, Newstead and Annesley) has risen by 10%, and currently stands at 43%. Sure Start helps families in need by offering a wide range of services focused around family health, early years care and improved well-being.

As well as donating a number of Easter eggs to the initiative, J Tomlinson also held an Easter raffle to raise money to help fund Christmas for the underprivileged families and children who depend on Sure Start’s help.

Libby Mackenzie, Coordinator at Ashfield Central Children’s Centre, commented: “The eggs have been distributed by workers when they go on home visits and have made children very happy. The children and families will greatly benefit from the donation and on behalf of the Children’s Centre Team at Ashfield Central we are incredibly appreciative.”

The company’s R&M team also donated Easter treats to client, Trent & Dove, for a local Easter party organised every year by volunteers at Short Street Community Café in Stapenhill, Burton-on-Trent.

The café is run by residents who volunteer their time to provide an outlet for low cost food at various times, providing low-income families with an opportunity to go out, meet people and feel part of their community.

Seventeen children and their families attended the party, and all enjoyed two hours of crafts, competitions, lunch and - of course - an Easter egg from the Easter bunny.

Dawn Maddin, Community Engagement Manager at Trent & Dove Housing, commented: “Thank you to J Tomlinson for their kind donation; all of the Easter eggs were distributed at the party, which was a great success.”