On Friday, October 11th, I’ll be participating in the Giant Howarth Sleepout 3 alongside my two children, aged 6 and 9, to raise funds for the Howarth Foundation and the Giants Community Trust. This event offers a unique opportunity to support our local community and, on a personal level, it’s a cause that resonates deeply with me. 

As a family, we often visit the John Smith Stadium to cheer on Huddersfield Town or the Huddersfield Giants. This time, however, we’re heading to the stadium for something far more significant—a night spent sleeping outside to highlight the daily struggle that too many people in our community face. It will be a powerful experience, not just for me, but for my kids as well, as they learn firsthand about the challenges others endure.  

The Giant Howarth Sleepout, launched in 2022, aims to provide more than just a one-off experience—it’s a platform to raise awareness, drive fundraising, and directly support those who need it most. The sleepout is organised by two incredible organisations, the Howarth Foundation and the Giants Community Trust, both of which work tirelessly to support vulnerable individuals with limited resources. 

Why This Event Matters to Me 

At France+Associates, our work often puts us in direct contact with individuals in desperate need of better accommodation. Some are unable to return to their homes following injury, while others live in housing that simply isn’t suitable for their needs. We also assist young families struggling to find appropriate housing under challenging circumstances. 

The mission of the Howarth Foundation and the Giants Community Trust closely mirrors the work we do in helping people transition into more suitable environments. Supporting the sleepout aligns perfectly with my personal and professional values. This cause is especially significant given the statistics in our local Kirklees area—more than 250 people are homeless, and 18% of children are growing up in poverty. For these children, poverty limits their ability to participate in sports and physical activities, depriving them of essential opportunities to thrive. 

By participating in the Giant Howarth Sleepout, I hope to contribute to the ongoing efforts to address these issues. This event isn’t just about sleeping out for a night; it’s about making a difference in the lives of the most vulnerable in our community. 

How You Can Help 

In addition to participating in the sleepout, I’m asking for your support. France+Associates will be matching any sponsorships raised by my children and me, doubling the impact of your contributions. Every donation counts, no matter how small, and goes directly to helping the Howarth Foundation and Giants Community Trust provide critical services to those in need. 

If you’d like to support our efforts, you can sponsor us here. 

Let’s come together as a community and make a difference in the lives of those who need it most. Thank you for your support!