Doing Good

It's alway a pleasure to witness firsthand the good work that some organisations provide, be that financially or otherwise, assisting a neighbourhood. Yesterday I was commissioned to attend the official opening of South Bank Community Grocery which plays a vital role in an area of Middlesbrough which has suffered in the wake of industrial decline. "Slaggy Island" as the district was once known sits alongside the River Tees and was once dominated by both the steel-making and ship-building industries.

The opening/plaque unveiling for South Bank Comunity Grocery is performed by Jacqui Corney of Teesworks Benevolent Foundation (TBF), Nikitas Coulson, Heather Johnson of TBF, Martin Dunkley, a pastor from Tees Valley Community Church and Terry Young from The Message Trust.

Funded by Teesworks Benevolent Foundation and in partnership with The Message Trust and Tees Valley Community Church, the Grocery has been able to provide everyday items at a more affordable price for those living locally. In addition, The Open Well which is just next door provides a safe space with support for people who may be feeling lonely, vulnerable or just want a cuppa and a chat. It also offers skill training to help with financial problems and general wellbeing.

I hope that the presence of this caring community service will lead to a better and brighter future for the people of South Bank and encourage a more giving society.

@TeesworksUK @MessageTrust #teesworks #teesworksbenevolentfoundation #themessagetrust #teesvalleycommunitychurch #southbank #middlesbrough #utb