A new project which offers an open house and a safe place for people to go in their time of need has benefited from a council grant.
The Living Rooms, based in Garthway Arcade, Northallerton, which opened its doors three months ago and provides a wide range of support for people with life issues ranging from stress and anxiety to depression and loneliness, has a brand new kitchen thanks to the authority’s Making a Difference grant scheme.
“The initial idea to develop a safe place for people to go in their time of need was identified by church volunteers who had seen first-hand the issues people were facing within our community and how difficult it was for them to navigate the support available,” said Steve Cowie, chair of trustees of The Living Rooms.
“And the kitchen will be used by individuals, families and local groups and will help develop friendships and form the heart of this community hub.”
Hambleton District Council provided £5,000 of the £70,000 start-up funding.
The rest came from the ONE Northallerton Churches, other grant funding and individual gifts, plus significant help from local businesses.
District Councillor and Ward Member for Northallerton South, Councillor Caroline Dickinson who supported the application, added: “It is always good to see that our small grants can make a real difference to communities across Hambleton.
“I am confident that this project will be a huge asset to our community and will provide a model which can be replicated throughout the county.
Several organisations including Hambleton FoodShare, Renew Wellbeing and Jubilee Debt Advice are based there now too and there are partnerships with NHS mental health teams, the Secret Garden and other local voluntary and statutory services.
The hub is currently open Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturdays from 10am to 1pm. These opening times are planned to be extended soon due to its popularity.
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