A charity that gives out free ‘bags of hope’ are raising money to refurbish their new community building in Wath Upon Dearne.
The House of Grace, founded in 2018, in Bolton Upon Dearne by Claire and Rich Ashby, alleviates poverty and suffering by providing food hampers, baby packs, school uniforms, winter clothing and much more.
Mrs Ashby said: “What’s been crazy is that many of the people who need help are actually working, and food banks won’t help them because they are in work.
“It is so overwhelming to give someone a bag of hope and see them break down in tears because they can’t believe that someone cares. One lady told me ‘now I can feed my family’.
“So, when we find out someone is in real need, we want to go back with more support.”
A typical bag will include non-perishable items such as pasta, beans, soup, tinned meat and fish, cereal, as well toilet roll, shower gel, sanitary wear and more.
The ‘bags of hope’ began during the pandemic when people were isolating, but what started as a temporary project has snowballed, especially since the cost of living crisis.
The House of Grace have given out these bags in Wath Upon Dearne, where their new building is.
“This year we got a building in Wath Upon Dearne and we are now raising money to enable us to serve the community every day.
“We plan to expand our work to included community meals, lunches for the elderly, special needs parent/carer support groups, workshops to enhance basic skill and things like cooking classes, community choir.
“There is such a need in this area. We are in the top third for poverty in UK, and we know this will make a difference.”
They are hoping businesses will get on board by donating items. The new building needs a kitchen, windows, tables and chairs, and help to create an extension for disabled toilets and access.
They have raised nearly £28,000 in a few months. However, this is only a fraction of what is needed.
Click on this link if you’d like to donate to the House of Grace.