The new space also allows them to “begin new services to assist local people”.
Burton HOPE didn’t want to move. The charity described Crossley House at Burton Market Place, where they have been working to alleviate the effects of poverty for two years and 11 months, as “the perfect location for our operations”. But faced with no other option – other than to end its efforts altogether, which wouldn’t do – they have put care into finding new appropriate premises.
Chairman John Anderson’s attitude perfectly sums up their eagerness to continue providing support to the community: “Onward and upward.”
Just before the end of June, the charity – which will turn 10 next year – moved to Anglesey Road Industrial Estate, to a unit almost double the size than the last. This will, at least, allow HOPE to expand its operations and to work at a higher capacity.
John says the new space also allows them to “begin new services to assist local people”.
The Anglesey Road unit has been organised to include a large food bank area, as well as an ‘extras area’ for storing fresh fruit, vegetables, bread and the likes, a clothes bank, meeting and counselling area and an office space.
HOPE’s move was carried out so quickly – thanks to the help of the charity’s dedicated volunteers, alongside East Staffordshire Borough Council contractors – that they only had to close for one day. The team was able to start operating at the new location on Tuesday 23 June. ‘Bean Man’ kindly dropped off the first HOPE donation at Anglesey Road on the same day.
This rapid continuation of the service is vital. HOPE reported earlier in June that it had recently experienced “the busiest evening we have ever had”, adding:
“The number of homeless people sleeping rough is growing. The number of homeless people sofa surfing is growing. The increase in the cost of living is hitting everyone. We are having to up our game to cope.”
But Burton HOPE can’t do it alone.
The charity says it “urgently needs donations of food and clothing” – and, of course, cash, which can be sent to the following account:
BURTON HOPE Lloyds Bank
Account No: 52256860
Sort Code: 30-98-97
It is also taking on new volunteers (18+ only at this time). Applications can be made here.
And if you are in need of support from the charity, you can contact them on Facebook, @BurtonHOPE.