Park Place Retail are delighted to announce we are partnering with Sparkes Homes Sri Lanka, a charity run by George Stratton’s mum, Claire Stratton (nee Sparkes). The Sparkes family have long connections with Sri Lanka, dating back to the mid-19th century when their ancestors went to Ceylon to establish coffee and tea plantations. Claire was born in Ceylon and has a deep affection for the island and its people.
Following the tsunami in 2004, Claire and her family set up Sparkes Homes Sri Lanka, which help girls who are poverty stricken, abused, disadvantaged or at risk. Some children are referred by the social services and Sparkes Homes provide them all with a secure homely environment, a good diet, clothing and pastoral care. The girls attend local state schools (free to every child in Sri Lanka) and Sparkes Homes offer extra tuition in the core subjects. Where necessary, Sparkes Homes also provide counselling.
Sparkes Homes continue to support school leavers through university, general tertiary education and vocational courses.
Since opening their first homes in 2007, Sparkes Homes have enabled over 500 girls to start new lives with vastly improved prospects.
If you would like to know more, please visit their website www.sparkeshomessrilanka.org.