Wellingborough Integrated Social Enterprises is celebrating having received a £4,000 grant for Sofawise, its furniture turnaround service for those in need. The grant has been made by the Lloyds TSB Foundation for England and Wales through its Community Programme.
Sofawise was established in 2002 to help people on low incomes to access low cost furniture and household items. It is conveniently situated in the heart of Wellingborough at 51 Gordon Road and is open Monday to Thursday from 9am to 5pm and on Friday from 9am to 12noon. Sofawise collects for free good quality, clean, safe, second hand furniture and offers it to people on low income who either self refer or are referred by local support agencies.
Hugh Fenton, chair of Trustees at Sofawise is delighted with the grant. He explained, “The one year grant covers our transport costs and volunteer support for those who work on the van. These functions are essential to the continued and successful running of a key support for many people in the area. In the past year, we provided furniture to 300 households.”
Hugh is on the look out for new volunteers who can help out with furniture collections and shop and warehouse support. The charity provides training and support with many volunteers using it as way to get work experience and confidence before moving into paid employment.
Anyone who has furniture to donate, time to volunteer or interested in finding out if they eligible for Sofawise furniture and household items should call 01933 270623.
Gary Beharrell, grant manager for the Lloyds TSB Foundation commented, “This is an excellent project with a triple win; furniture collection, recycling and supporting low income households.”
The Lloyds TSB Foundation for England and Wales supports charities that help disadvantaged people to play a fuller role in the community. Local or regional charities with an income up to £1million can find out more about the funding criteria and grant programmes at www.lloydstsbfoundations.org.uk.
