Foodbank’s New Premises receives support
It’s always been a busy place since it started but, in the last year, Newquay Foodbank, based at St Michaels Church, identified the benefits which could be derived for customers and volunteers by having a dedicated area from which to operate. As a result, with the blessing of the church, it now operates from an area of St Michaels that has its own entrance and storage area, together with space in which those who visit can be assisted.
Newquay Towan Blystra Lions agreed to help with some of the costs in establishing this area when approached by the Foodbank and were pleased to be able to donate £200 towards the fund. They did his from their quarterly grant application fund which encourages local not-for-profit organisations to let the Lions know of initiatives which need help and, four times a year, the club review applications for individual grants of up to £500. This is over and above other larger or regular donations which are made by them during the year for specific projects.
Towan Blystra Lions established the quarterly grant scheme over a year ago and they have been able to help a wide and diverse group of organisations during this time with over £10,000 having already been donated. The funds come from money the Lions raise through events like Newquay Beer Festival, Giant Easter Egg Raffles, Santa’s Sleigh and various other collections and activities. Groups such as Newquay Surf Life Saving Club, Newquay in Bloom, Newquay Community Orchard, Friends of several schools such as Nansleddan, Indian Queens, St Newlyn East, and Newquay Pre-School, Rialton Community Association, Harbour Sports and 5th Newquay Scouts are examples of some of those that have received grants. The next grants will be considered at the Lions meeting at the end of May.
If you know of a local not-for-profit organisation which provides support or activities for those in the Newquay and district area, and would like to know more about applying for one of the grants available, have a look at www.newquaytowanblystralions.