On Friday 28 September, Harvest Housing Group held a Residents’ Open Day at the City of Manchester Stadium, where all tenants and residents were invited to meet staff and discover all that the housing group has to offer.
Harvest Housing Group displayed stalls showcasing a variety of their services, and the neighbourhoods they work in. Additionally, employees were on hand to speak to residents and tenants about any particular subject matter. Lunch was provided, and the day ended by bringing all their guests together for an awards ceremony celebration; The 2007 Montgomery Awards.
The Montgomery Awards are organised by Harvest Housing Group to recognise those groups or individuals who have made a real difference to the lives of others within all of their communities and neighbourhoods. The awards have now entered their 3rd consecutive year, and are named after Harvest's former Chair, Lady Joyce Montgomery, who is now its Patron.
Ian Perry, Chief Executive of Harvest Housing Group comments:
“The Montgomery Awards have been designed to recognise the contributions that ordinary people from Harvest Housing Group’s neighbourhoods make to the community. We would like to congratulate our winners for their hard work and dedication. They’re an asset to us.”
Certificates and cheques were handed out generously to deserving people throughout the afternoon. The Biddulph East Residents Association were voted the overall Group winners, receiving £2,500 for their commitment and work within the community. They have a proven track record of running a successful community café and resource centre, and aspire to open a furniture exchange along the parade to help local people who need help to furnish their homes, which their prize money will go towards.
A further six groups and individuals were awarded a runner – up prize of £1,000 from across the North West.