A homelessness charity based in Salford is awaiting the result of a crucial funding bid that could determine whether its doors stay open.
Salford Loaves and Fishes, based in Pendleton, applied to join a scheme providing grant funding to charities and community groups across Greater Manchester.
Salford will receive £941,000 to be invested into the volunteer sector and successful applicant charities and organisations will receive part of this funding.
Jenni Smith, CEO of local support centre Salford Loaves and Fishes, said: “Last year, it was over £600,000 we needed to source to remain open.
“Because of the way we work, we have no way of generating income and are totally reliant on funding to operate.”
The funding given to Salford Loaves and Fishes and other organisations that apply would come in January and may prove vital to help keep these important institutions running.
November 17 was the deadline for organisations across the region to register their interest in being part of Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham’s Live Well scheme to become designated “Live Well Centres” that will be awarded funding.
Live Well Centres are part of the Mayor’s scheme to improve employment and welfare across Greater Manchester.
He said: “The current welfare system is based on distrust and too often leaves people feeling worse about themselves and further away from work. ‘Live Well’ will build self-esteem and get people ready to move into work.”
Salford Loaves and Fishes provides a drop-in centre where homeless people can access food, shelter and support services.
One beneficiary said: “Salford Loaves and Fishes helped me greatly when I was in a mess. If it were to close down, it would be like cutting off one of my limbs.”
A 61-year-old woman who uses the drop-in centre said: “I have been coming here for a while now. When you are in dire need of food, they will give you a food parcel. It would affect me dramatically if it were to close down.”
And a regular attendee said: “When I have been short of money, Loaves and Fishes have been there with food and advice. It would affect me because I have come to know quite a few people who use the centre, and we have been friendly.”
Loaves and Fishes eagerly awaits the results of its application, along with many other charities in Salford and Greater Manchester, to be part of Andy Burnham’s new vision for support for the underprivileged.
More information about homelessness charity Salford Loaves and Fishes here.
