The Residents Association of Farringdon and Thirlmere (RAFT) is a fully constituted not for profit organisation based at the Farringdon Park Community Centre on Thirlmere Road in Preston. RAFT was set up in 1995 and is run exclusively by volunteers. They provide a range of services for some 700 households in the locality.
One of those services is a weekly foodbank. The aim is to reduce food poverty in the area and improve food security as well as other aspects of life. The rises in the cost of living have brought this into sharp focus where people have to carefully consider the balance of many living costs, including meals. The annual running cost of RAFT are £10.000 per year.
RAFT will not discriminate against members of the community for any reason. They are there to provide social connections, friendship and practical and emotional support and to develop local pride amongst our residents They also promote various educational and training activities, that will enhance the lives of residents. Organise social and enjoyable activities for members in all age groups and promote good relations with service providers and agencies in the area. Services offered are; weekly food club, weekly youth club, weekly over 50’s friendship club, weekly community cafe and sports and social activities
As part of the Annual Foodbank Appeal, the Freemasons of the Preston Group have been honoured to assist this critically important group. David Parker and Simon Wright, on behalf of the Preston Group, delivered over £500 worth of groceries to RAFT.
John Elkins, Chairman of RAFT, said: “Your donation will allow us to continue to support families, single parents and our elderly residents and children all struggling with food costs”
The Preston Group would like to thank Aldi at Fulwood Central for their ongoing support in preparing orders for them.
