
Wilmslow Town Council has awarded a Community Grant of £3,474 to fund the Colshaw Farm Hope Centre for six months.
Run by the charity Hope Central, Colshaw Farm's Hope Centre is one of four local Hope Centres. Hope Central – who aim to bring hope and relieve poverty – also operate two food banks, a debt centre, and a range of courses designed to improve quality of life, primarily within SK9 and WA16.
Located at the Open Arms Centre on Howty Close, the Colshaw Farm Hope Centre is a free weekly drop-in service open to all. It offers hot drinks, food, crafts, games, a warm welcome, and access to further support services aimed at helping individuals move out of poverty.
Since opening in February 2024, the centre has supported over 50 individuals, with an average of 25 attending each week.
The grant from Wilmslow Town Council will cover the Centre Manager's wages, venue hire, and food and resources for weekly sessions during the six-month period.
Wilmslow Town Mayor, Councillor Sally Harrison, said, "Having visited the Colshaw Farm Hope Centre, it's clear what a positive difference it makes to the community.
"As well as providing refreshments, the centre offers companionship, support, and opportunities to learn new skills.
"We're proud to fund the centre and grateful to the Hope Central team and volunteers for the vital work they do."