Unity, the Alcohol and Drug Recovery Service for Cumbria has announced it will be providing £3,000 in funding for CalderWood House homeless hostel in Egremont.
The project, which provides emergency housing and support for people who find themselves homeless in West Cumbria, is a social enterprise funded by a mixture of fundraising and sponsorship.
Rachel Holliday Founder and Company Director said: “We are delighted to receive this funding from Unity. Our work in the local community is vital and we need this kind of support to keep our doors open. We are currently full and have a waiting list of people eager to take up accommodation and the opportunity of a new start. Residents get involved in all kinds of activities from training and education to helping out in the local community. This great work can only continue with the support from the likes of Unity.”
Ashley Gibson, Unity’s Community Development Lead says; “We see our support for community projects like CalderWood House as a really important part of our work in Cumbria. CalderWood House in particular is a much needed resource in West Cumbria and as well as Unity working in close partnership with the project, it is a pleasure to also be able to contribute to the further support of their residents through the Unity Asset Building Fund.”
Current resident, Dylan said, “CalderWood House has been a lifeline for me. I don’t think I would be here today had it not been for them. I am really pleased that Unity are supporting the project so that others can receive the support they need to achieve a fresh start and a productive future”.
The funding from Unity’s Asset Building Fund will be used to sponsor one of 11 rooms at CalderWood House and also to support the projects own “mini” asset fund to give financial help for residents where it is most needed. The community interest project which gives priority to ex forces and includes rooms with disabled facilities. All rooms are en-suite. There is a communal kitchen and “Hub” area for residents with access to training, WiFi and laptops.
Over 70 residents have been assisted since its opening by the Cumbria Police & Crime Commissioner, Mr Richard Rhodes in October 2015. Of those received, 20% have been ex-forces.
