Ashington RVS Social Centre can continue providing their essential service to residents in the area, having secured a £1000 grant from Northumberland Freemasons, via the Richard Henry Holmes Benevolent Fund.
The social club for over 60’s, run entirely by volunteers, helps individuals from the local community to meet up, whether for a lunch, game of bingo, music quizzes, chair-based exercise, or simply a cup of tea and a good chat.
Unfortunately, due to the pandemic, they have been unable to operate, however, have kept in contact with the clients by providing a hot lunch every month, high teas, Easter gifts, chocolate strawberries and a word search book, a delivered Christmas lunch, Christmas hampers and birthday cards.
Diana Elsdon, the Coordinator and Treasurer of Ashington RVS Social Centre, advised us “We are very grateful to the Masons for their generosity and their donation will make a huge difference to our Centre.” and explained that it was her intention to restart the centre on 29 July with the first meeting having a party atmosphere, with a buffet lunch, singer and various activities, including a raffle and bingo.
Looking towards the Christmas period Diana is already planning a pantomime and Christmas lunch, dependent upon any lasting restrictions.
Stuart Cairns, the Secretary to the Trustees of the Richard Henry Holmes Benevolent Fund, said “The Royal Voluntary Service Team based at the Ashington Social Centre provides a valuable service to the senior members of the Local Community. The Trustees have been delighted to award a Grant of £1,000 to the Ashington RVS to support the cost of providing those services.”
Want to get involved, or to find out more about the essential services provided by the Ashington RVS Social Centre, go to https://www.royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk/services/2820-social+club+%26+events
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