Story & photos: Lisa Swift
Parents from the Somali community gathered at the Vestry Hall on 5th October to meet Councillor Jackie Drayton. They asked for her support to continue projects now running at the Vestry Hall for children and families.
The meeting showcased Somali run projects including ITCSSS, Mothers of Burngreave and Rite Turn, who run a range of activities such as study support, positive activities for women and young people and a new lunch club. There were information stalls, registration for study support and many people were signing up as volunteers for the projects.
Responding to parents’ concerns about keeping the project going after funding cuts, Jackie said, “The Council is struggling with the budget, but I promise to do everything I can to help, particularly with the rent costs of the building.”
Mohamed Issa, Manager of ITCSSS Study Support, said. “It was a good turn out and everyone was positive and wanted to contribute as volunteers or offering to pay for study support. We are also organising a clean up day around the Vestry Hall on 29th November and people were signing up to do that. We are working with Burngreave TARA and Sheffield Futures on this. People understand we are in difficult times and they know we need to come together.”
New Somali Day Care group based at the Vestry Hall, every Wednesday. It’s a free service aimed at women over 60 and includes a free lunch. Women share their skills in embroidery, sewing and knitting. To find out more contact Halwo Hassan on 07951 956 591.
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