Lottery funding gives York charity £40k
Charities in York have received £40,000 per year in donations from the National Lottery.
Many more people in York will be able to receive vital support and help after a local charity received lottery funding.
York Neighbours provides practical help and support to people aged over 65. The charity has received £40,000 a year for the next three years allowing it to expand its services.
The charity now hopes to reach more people all over the city. Furthermore, it is also inviting more people to sign up as volunteers to help meet the growing demand.
The charity provides three forms of support. Firstly, they help with one-off practical jobs in the home. They complete regular phone calls to help combat isolation. Finally, they create invitations to group events or outings with fellow Neighbours.
The charity was launched as Belfrey Neighbours, through St Michael le Belfrey Church in 2012. The charity became York Neighbours as city-wide demand increased later on.
The funding is from the National Lottery Community Fund which supports projects that enable their community to thrive.
What do the people involved have to say?
Helen Aitchison, the coordinator of York Neighbours, said…
‘We now have increased capacity to support many more people, and to reach out to those needing a little extra help.’
Liz Edge, one of the charity’s Neighbours, said…
‘York Neighbours have proven to be ideal, whether for everyday help or recommending more complex contacts for other areas of help.’
She expands further by saying: ‘I would not hesitate in recommending them to anyone needing help, whether trivial or more complex.’
Tessa Denbeigh, a volunteer with the charity, says…
“I have done a variety of jobs helping with social outings, and moving small items of furniture. As a retired social worker, I also help with registering new Neighbours which involves meeting some amazing people as well as enabling me to use my past experience and skills.’
Because of this donation, many people over 65 will create new friends and memories.
