Hidden Homeless Balloon Launch 17.12.09
December 12th 2009 saw the launch of 'Fly Me Home', which aims to raise awareness of the growing number of hidden homeless in the UK.The hot air balloon was launched at St Paul's Cathedral, London, blessed by the Dean in preparation for its inaugural flight, when it will lead 30 hot air balloons across the capital next Spring, the first time this has happened in over ten years.
The 90A hot air balloon from Lindstrand includes a distinctive white London city-scape where people will be invited to donate money and sign their name or write a message of hope on the balloon itself. The Fly Me Home balloon will look to include up to 30,000 signatures and messages to raise awareness of the growing problem of young people living on the streets.
Fly Me Home is the latest venture from Film It, a national charity offering support and education to 'hard to reach' young people through the arts. The balloon itself will form the centrepiece of a social enterprise raising money to offer young people individual tailored mentoring support, skills trainig, jobs and qualifications, directing them towards ongoing help and further encouraging them to create stable relationships and improve their self esteem.
A quote from Sue Dawson the project's founder:
"We couldn't have done it without you! Streetsmart were the first to believe in us, giving financial support and encouragement to the project from the beginning. One thing leads to another and because Streetsmart believed we could make it happen, other supporters were then willing to come on board. So thankyou Streetsmart, come fly with us!!!!"
If you would like to support the project, write a messafge of hope on the balloon and put your name down for a free flight then follow this link: www.film-it.org.uk
Balloon Blessed and Launched
