Our Housing Project Launch Event
On the 5th August 2024, we hosted an intimate event that brought together supporters, experts, artists and community members to celebrate the launch of our much-anticipated housing project dedicated to supporting survivors of modern slavery. This inspiring evening took place at The Champagne Bar in 116 Pall Mall, with a packed agenda that offered attendees the chance to listen to insightful talks, enjoy live music and poetry, connect with a community of individuals committed to making a difference and help raise vital funds to support STF.
An evening of inspiring talks
The program began with an enlightening and compelling talk by Dr. Carole Murphy, an advocate and expert in the field of modern slavery and survivor support. Dr. Murphy delved into the harsh reality of modern-day slavery and the unique challenges faced by survivors, emphasising the need for safe, stable housing and multidimensional support in their journey towards freedom and independence. Her insights underscored the critical role that our housing project will play in empowering survivors like Ada, the first resident in our Property.
Following this, our founder and CEO Rachael King shared her remarkable professional journey that led to the creation of the Strongtower Foundation and the motivation behind the charity’s mission, giving us a glimpse into all the work that happened behind the scenes leading up to the launch of our housing project and our other initiatives.
Rachael King and Dr. Carole Murphy after their inspiring talks 
Rachael King addressing the attendees
A celebration of hope and community
After these inspiring talks, author and poet Jacqueline Codrington delighted us with a reading of a selection of her poems. “Carousel”, a deeply moving piece she wrote especially for the occasion, was a poignant reminder of the devastating reality faced by those trapped in modern slavery, leaving a lasting impression on everyone listening.
The evening concluded with a thrilling live auction, offering an opportunity to support our mission and get some wonderful prizes. Items up for bid included a splendid hamper, a delicious afternoon tea and a relaxing spa day. The auction was a huge success thanks to the enthusiasm and generosity of the attendees, raising over £600 towards our work to support modern slavery survivors.
Jacqueline Codrington reading her poetry 
The delighted auction winners posing with Rachael
We are thrilled to share that, by the end of the evening, we raised an impressive £980 towards our housing project!
We extend our sincere gratitude to our supporters and everyone who joined us for such a special evening. Our housing project is a vital step forward in our efforts to offer a hopeful new beginning to those we serve, and we truly believe that together we can win the fight against slavery, one life at a time.
