James Duddridge, Member of Parliament for Rochford and Southend East, recently visited the Storehouse Day Centre. The Storehouse Day Centre started out 14 years ago. Due to popular demand and client need, Storehouse, an arm of Southend Vineyard, has developed from supplying tins of food during Sunday Mass in Church to a 3 day a week drop in centre at Coleman Street Community Centre where teas, coffee, meals and food bags are given.
In addition to the provision of food bags and food, Storehouse now work with many other agencies enabling the clients to receive learning, creative writing classes, youth art
ourses, urban art, confidence boosting classes and a fitness club. The number of clients has more than trebled with over 800 currently on the books. On average 300 food bags are given out every week by a team of volunteers. All the food supplied is donated.
James said
""The work that the team at the Storehouse carry out is invaluable too so many vulnerable people. During my visit I was able to talk to a number of clients and it is apparent that the Storehouse provides a large number of them with their only meal for the day. People travel from across Southend to the community centre and not only does it provide them with food but also facilities to shower, engage in learning and fitness clubs. The atmosphere within the centre is so welcoming and friendly, you cannot help but to be touched by the tireless work the volunteers put into this project and I for one thank them for all their hard work.”