Thornaby woman turns life around thanks to Stockton charity
Chief executive, Jessie, from Stockton, said: “We are concentrating on making Christmas special for people who might never have had a nice time at this time of year.
“Some of the girls - and young guys - who access our services, will have had problems with alcohol, maybe drugs, have been on the street... after a year of working to change their lives it’s a time of celebration.”
So Jessie, who founded the charity nine years ago, and her 21-paid staff, as well as an army of volunteers, have staged five days of Christmas parties, featuring two-course dinners, party games and presents.
Jessie added: “We really couldn’t have done this without the support of the public who have donated presents or who have sponsored each meal.
“Because of people’s kindness we are able to provide dinner and presents to over 100 special women and young people.”
But the reality - and success - of what A Way Out does is typified through people like Elizabeth.