We are delighted to announce our collaboration with Fresh Start for Issue 02: Aftermath!
Fresh Start is an Edinburgh based charity that supports people following a period of homelessness and assists them in setting up their new tenancy through the provision of goods and services. Their services have developed over the years to meet a growing need, and all focus on ‘helping people make a home for themselves’. Being given a set of keys is a big step forward on the journey out of homelessness, but settling into a new home and feeling part of a community again is where Fresh Start supports people at such a vulnerable time.
The services they provide include our ‘starter packs’. These are packs of essential household basics such as bedding, curtains and kitchenware to help some set up their home. Last year they distributed 12,000 starter packs throughout the city. They also provide practical help in the form of our cooking classes, helping people to cook low cost, healthy meals on a budget and through the provision of our ‘Hit Squad’ painting and decorating service, turning old stained walls into liveable homes.
For them, home isn’t just about the four walls you have, but it is a wider concept, and home is also the community that you live in and feel connected too. To combat that social isolation and create inclusion, they have three gardens throughout the city of Edinburgh where people come and volunteer and make meaningful connections. They are also currently developing the premises next door to them to open their community Hub, a place where people will be able to come and enjoy both socially and practically and be able to seek greater access to the services that they offer.
Be sure to follow them on social media to show your support and keep up with their incredible work.
Check their website for more information on how you can support their incredible work or offer your spare goods or donate here.
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