The Olive Branch

The 3R Foundation recently awarded £350 to The Olive Branch for a washer/dryer for their Lancaster drop-in centre.

The Olive Branch supports people experiencing hardship caused by issues such as addiction, debt, poverty, homelessness, ill health, loneliness, job loss and relationship breakdown. They also provide support for asylum seekers and refugees, offering a welcoming and compassionate environment where people can access practical help and support.

Alongside hospitality, advice and referrals to other organisations, the charity runs a food bank and provides essential items including toiletries, sleeping bags, tents, hats and gloves.

Their drop-in centre also includes shower facilities, which are increasingly being used by homeless guests. The secure and private facilities are particularly valued by women accessing support.

The grant funded a washer/dryer, helping staff and volunteers keep towels clean and ready for use. Previously, the charity had relied on supporters taking towels home to wash, which sometimes led to shortages and meant guests could not always access the shower facilities when needed.

Having laundry facilities on site has helped ensure the centre can continue offering a safe, dignified and reliable service for vulnerable members of the community.

The 3R Foundation funds grants like this through the Recycle, Reuse, Rehome charity shop in Carnforth (next to Tesco). With a large number of grant applications coming in recently, continued support from the local community is more important than ever.

Every purchase in the shop helps raise the funds that go straight back out as grants to support local charities, clubs and community groups. If you are nearby, please call in and support the shop so we can continue helping even more organisations across our area.