Local Charity Hit By Recession

Cedars drop-in Centre for Young People threatened by lack of funds

The effects of the recession are hitting local charities hard, and the CEDARS drop in centre for young people in Chiswick faces an uncertain future if funds cannot be raised.

"Over the past year we have made real progress and developed closer links with other organisations in the local area, especially local schools. We now have three youth workers and continue to work co-operatively with the youth workers employed in local churches. Our opening hours have increased and we will be expanding to 5 days a week in the near future.

"There is very little available for young people in Chiswick and it is clear that we are filling a real gap. We have ambitious plans for new clubs and activities and are optimistic, but a lack of funds could threaten our future", said Chair of Board of Trustees, Simon Rodway.

“Although we are a charity, we get no government funding, so we’re entirely dependent on the money we can raise. We’ve had tremendous support from many people and businesses over the years, but it is increasingly difficult to secure the money we need in the current economic climate."

The next stage is to run a homework club and a life skills programme with everything from healthy eating, budgeting, applying for and keeping jobs, inter-personal skills, financial awareness and specific skills such as car mechanics. And we want to help support adults in their role as parents and carers, as well.”

It is clear to us that the young people who currently use our facilities are just the tip of the iceberg. However word is spreading and the number of young people attending is increasing.’

“We would love to hear from local individuals and businesses who would like to help us through volunteering, give/loan equipment, pledge time, sponsor an activity or make a donation.- all contributions help us to help others”

• CEDARS is a youth drop in centre, established as an independent charity (Chiswick Christians 4 Community Ltd, charity no 1118580) in 2006, building on the pre-existing youth café that has been run three afternoons a week from the Methodist Church in Sutton Court Road since 2003.

• CEDARS’ directors and staff are Christians, representing local Methodist, Anglican and Roman Catholic churches. CEDARS is thus faith-based but is not faith-biased, in that it serves people of all faiths and none.

March 5, 2009