March 2010

Dear Supporters,

Another year is already a quarter of the way through and it looks as if this will be an exciting year of growth for Wirral Churches' Ark Project.

Christmas was an amazing time for all, with staff and volunteers trying to give the best Christmas possible to those who have little or nothing at this often poignant time of year. The traditional Carol Service was well attended and enjoyed by all, and the day after we had a Christmas meal for all the residents. The lounge was decorated, trestle tables brought in, and a lovely three course meal was cooked by our wonderful volunteers. Staff waited on the residents and a party atmosphere prevailed. This was followed by entertainment and the party went on into the evening. Christmas Day brought presents for all, with thanks to all our supporters who generously donated goods and time to make this a real Christmas for our residents.

As I write this our training extension is nearly finished and we hope to have it handed over to us this week. It is a beautiful, light and airy place which we hope will be used extensively by our clients and those from other providers. There is a large meeting room, a small kitchenette, a toilet with disabled access, and a room for our nursing service. We will be having an official opening in the near future, but if anyone would like to come and see this facility they will be most welcome.

The Pathway model introduced by Supporting People goes "live" this April. Mary Cole House is stage one on this four stage journey for homeless clients, with our Arkangel Project at stage three, for clients who are more independent. Although it is only just now being launched, we have been following this model for nearly twelve months already, as have a number of other providers, and we are hoping that it will continue to provide a straightforward pathway for our clients to follow on their journey out of homelessness.

Our AGM is on Tuesday April 20th 2010 at 7:P30 at St Albans Parish centre in Liscard. All are welcome, and if anyone wants any information about this, then please contact me via the form on this web site or directly at Mary Cole House. Wirral Ark Dinghies is doing well, and has continued to restore and sell boats over the winter period. If anyone is interested in supporting this project then please use the contact details on this site.

Many thanks to all the organisations, businesses and individuals who continue to support us in whatever way they can. It is through people like this that we are able to carry on supporting the homeless and vulnerable of our area.

Sincerely,

Anne O'Marah
Chief Executive