We aim to provide relief to those in need and promote the rebuilding of lives in Salford and Greater Manchester. Through a collection of projects and resources we tackle and target issues around isolation, homelessness, food poverty, financial difficulty, mental health and youth empowerment and more.

 

Founded in 2019 by Paul Hallam, Lighthouse Community Trust is a new community, grass roots charity working actively in the communities of Salford and North Manchester to support those most in need. We have worked with the local authorities, local councillors and other charities/ organisations to support the locals needs particularly during the pandemic. 

 

During Lockdown our big project was our bless Manchester food parcel project. As a charity we are sent referrals for food parcels via the local authorities, or other charity groups and community organisations. We support families or individuals who have been particularly affected by the pandemic which has left them physically or financially in need. We have therefore been able to supply these families and vulnerable individuals with food supplies such as non-perishables food items as well as fresh bread and vegetables. We deliver food parcels once a month to support these families and vulnerable individuals. During this recent climate there has been an increase in anxiety, loneliness, isolation and in some cases leading to depression and suicidal thoughts. The season of lockdown, uncertainty and isolation has caused mental health issues to increase.

As a charity created to reach into the community and help those in need, we have decided to create a support line to lead on from our food parcels project. We aim to reach out to those in the local community who are isolated, lonely or are struggling through a difficult situation and need someone to talk to. The Lighthouse support helpline is run by volunteers and is available to anyone to call in for a chat and in some cases require practical support or advice we can sign-post them to receive appropriate support.  

From this as we came out of the pandemic we expanded and our food parcels project to set up a food club, this allows people to pay a small fee and get a full shop. We also use the food club shop as a place for community where people can have a free refreshment and sit and have a chat. Leading on from this we have also have weekly community meals for just £1. This is open to members of the food club and local community coming for a wholesome, healthy, hot meal. Through meals we have built up relationships, helping those who are lonely and isolated, as well as those struggling with social or financial issues. It is a safe space and a refuge for many people. We have also set up drop-in support to help those overcoming addiction as well as arranging legal support with trained professionals to give advice on benefits and welfare support to those who need it. Also have continued with community hubs for families to come together for a fun day with children and have partnered to take families on holiday who may not get on holiday due to financial or social issues.  We also have street work and prison projects to support the rebuilding of lives for those who are homeless or in prison. 

Over the last 4 years our projects have greatly increased, and our reach has vastly expanded allowing us to bring relief aid, support and restoration to many more people. We plan to continue to expand our reach to support more people and bring hope and restoration to those in even the most desperate circumstances.