Big News! 17 & Central Teams Up with Samaritans
We’re thrilled to announce that the Waltham Forest branch of Samaritans is our new charity of the year at 17 & Central! Over the next 12 months, you’ll see us hosting events, raising funds, and spreading the word about this incredible charity that’s right at the heart of our community. 🌟
Last year, we had an amazing partnership with The Together Project, raising over £5,000. This year, when the local branch of Samaritans approached us for support, we knew it was the perfect choice. Their work – supporting people through tough times, lending a listening ear, and helping individuals cope – struck a chord with us, especially after the challenges brought by Covid.
Our General Manager, Gavin Cockayne, shared why this partnership means so much:
“By partnering with Samaritans, we not only hope to raise awareness of the invaluable support it offers and encourage our community to get involved through volunteering or donations, but also to make it easier for individuals to reach out. Samaritans is not just for people with suicidal thoughts, it also offers listening and support to people and communities in times of need.”
What Does Samaritans Do? 💚
Based on Lea Bridge Road in Leyton, this fantastic branch is run almost entirely by volunteers. They’re constantly out and about – from Whipps Cross hospital to train stations, schools, colleges, workplaces, and even community events like Waltham Forest Pride. They’ve got an active outreach program that makes sure their life-saving support reaches everyone who needs it.
And guess what? They’re bringing back face-to-face support this year! After being paused due to Covid, the branch is now renovating its special sitting room and preparing to reintroduce this vital service. How amazing is that?
Exciting Times Ahead!
Harriet Parker, Deputy Director at Waltham Forest Samaritans, shared her enthusiasm:
“It really means a lot to be chosen as 17 & Central’s charity of the year. As a charity, we have to raise our own funds to keep the branch open, rely on our volunteers to run fundraising events and are reliant on donations from others. This is an exciting opportunity for us to show the local area who we are and what we do.”
And we’re not wasting any time! The branch already hosted a successful outreach activity at 17 & Central, and there’s plenty more to come. Keep an eye out for a coffee and chat event with Samaritans (we can’t wait!), plus our Easter Bunny Bonanza activity from 10-13 April. 🐰 It’s going to be a fantastic fundraising opportunity and loads of fun for everyone.
Why Samaritans?
Samaritans are here for everyone, whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, stressed, lonely, or just need someone to talk to. From relationship struggles to job stress, there’s no typical problem or person who calls their helpline – what matters is how you’re feeling. They’re here every day and night of the year, making sure no one has to face their challenges alone. 💛
Let’s join forces to make a real difference in our community. With your help, we can support Samaritans in continuing their vital work and ensuring their volunteers are ready to answer calls from those who need them most.
Stay tuned for updates, events, and opportunities to get involved. Together, we can do something amazing. Let’s make 2025 a year to remember! 🎉
