An essential community organisation that has been providing crucial support to families in Witham since 2017 has been awarded a significant £2,000 donation to enhance its services. This generous contribution comes from Persimmon Homes Essex, a housebuilder based in the same town, which allocates a total of £24,000 in grants annually across Essex and neighbouring regions as part of its commitment to fostering a lasting positive impact in the county.
Funding for a Vital Cause
The Witham Community Hub has been selected as a recipient in the latest round of funding and plans to utilise the money to reintroduce dementia awareness programmes to the local area. This initiative aims to offer members of the public, carers, and families an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the experiences faced by individuals living with dementia, thereby promoting empathy and support within the community.
A Hub at the Heart of Witham
Established several years ago to address the challenges of rising food costs, the Hub has evolved into a central pillar of the town. It now provides a warm and inviting environment in the town centre where residents can enjoy a hot beverage and engage in social interactions. Additionally, the Hub operates a pay-what-you-can shop that sells food rescued from supermarkets throughout Witham, helping to combat food poverty and reduce waste.
Support from Local Leaders
Luke Atkinson, the technical director for Persimmon Homes Essex, recently visited the Hub to present the donation and meet with the dedicated team. He expressed his admiration, stating: "The Witham hub truly serves as the heart of the community here, tackling critical issues from food poverty to social isolation. On behalf of Persimmon, we extend our gratitude for their invaluable work. It is a privilege to provide this donation, knowing it will fund an event that will benefit so many people."
Tina Townsend, the founder of the Hub, responded with appreciation: "We are deeply thankful to Persimmon Homes Essex for this funding. Every aspect of our operations incurs costs, and we rely on donations from local businesses and residents to continue our mission. This support is essential for our sustainability and growth."
Recognition and Future Impact
Councillor Paul Heath, who represents Witham South Ward on Braintree District Council and serves as the Witham Town Mayor, has been a longstanding advocate for the Hub. He highlighted its role in the town's recognition as a Dementia Friendly community: "Witham's status as a Dementia Friendly town is a matter close to my heart. The efforts of Tina and her team in providing a social space for those with dementia and educating others have been instrumental in achieving this recognition. We are grateful to Persimmon for assisting the Hub in advancing this important work within our community."
This donation not only underscores the collaborative spirit between local businesses and community groups but also reinforces the ongoing commitment to addressing key social issues in Witham. The Hub's initiatives continue to make a tangible difference, fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment for all residents.
