9:58am Wednesday 16th June 2010
A CENTRE which helps struggling families and children has received a much-needed financial boost from a charity conscious local law firm.
Leigh’s threatened Stonehouse Contact Centre, Etherstone Street, appealed to local businesses to step in to help keep it afloat.
And Stephensons Solicitors LLP were happy to oblige with a £500 donation.
The centre, which is staffed by volunteers has been in operation for over 12 years and relies heavily on limited available funding and donations.
Funding this year has significantly decreased leaving its future under threat.
Vicky Gethin, a partner at Stephensons who acts for parents and children, said: “The Stonehouse Centre is invaluable for vulnerable members of the community.
“Lots of our clients use the centre. Sometimes following a relationship breakdown, children can lose contact with one parent. In circumstances like this, the centre provides a stress-free environment to assist parents and their children in maintaining and developing their relationship.
“We are pleased to contribute to support Stonehouse’s work and I would urge other businesses to consider doing the same.”
The Contact Centre is also organising a series of family fund raising events to keep the service running in Leigh.
Volunteers completed a bike ride from Leigh to Worsley and back again and on Saturday (June 19) have organised a ‘Music for a Summer Evening’ concert at Wigan Citadel Salvation Army in Scholes, from 7pm. Tickets are available at £3 per adult and children can attend free.
The Centre is also hosting a garden fete on August 21 from 11am.
Margaret Picton-Baxter, chairman of Stonehouse, said: “Our future existence is in jeopardy without the support of local businesses and support for the events we have planned.
“The Centre continues to struggle for money for bills such as insurance, volunteers’ expenses and other essential items. Donations will enable us to continue the valuable work that our volunteers provide for local families and children.”
For tickets for the Stonehouse fundraising events, or more information, contact Margaret on 01942 674556.
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