IT was all smiles at Redditch Nightstop on Tuesday when the big hearted charity received a bumper surprise cheque for £3,000 from the TSB.
Nightstop was one of 50 charities chosen from 500 nominations by TSB and the money will go to delivering cookery and DIY sessions for those facing homelessness.
“This is all part of being in the local community and supporting local charities and new businesses,” said Karen Baxter manager of the Unicorn Hill branch of the TSB.
The branch is a proud supporter of local charities, having backed Redditch Nightstop in the past and now Where Next? for people with learning disabilities.
Susan Sadler, manager of Redditch Nightstop said: the money would deliver four eight-week courses over 12 months for 18 to 35 year olds who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.
Each course will consist of four practical DIY workshops and four cookery sessions with 32 young people overall taking part.
“The Mental Health Foundation reports that there is now evidence clearly linking good mental health to a healthy and nutritious diet,” she said.
“Given the high correlation between mental health problems and homelessness, it is essential that people are equipped with the skills to eat a nutritious diet on a low budget.
“Budgeting is a major difficulty for most of our service users and many have not had the opportunity to develop culinary skills and lack the confidence to cook from scratch.
“Many don’t cook, relying on expensive and often unhealthy ready meals – some will go regularly without food. Teaching these skills is an important part of moving our clients towards independent living.”
The courses aim to build self-esteem and a sense of competence, contribute to a sense of control and identity, save money, foster relationships, empower people and possibly lead to employment.
