Crosspoint handed boost by Freemasons
Story posted on
CROSSPOINT, the drop-in centre in Westbury Market Place, has received a £940 donation from the White Horse Lodge of Freemasons. The cheque was presented by the chairperson and treasurer of the White Horse Lodge at the Welcome Centre at the end of last month.
“We were delighted to be the recipients of this generous donation from the White Horse Lodge of Freemasons”, says Kevin Fairman, chair of the trustees of Crosspoint. “We rely on the generosity of local organisations, businesses and individuals to provide the funding we need to keep our centre open and to enable us to provide all our services to those within our community who need support.”
The trained volunteers at the centre in Westbury Market Place have been busy over the past few months helping with the completion of benefit forms, writing CVs, job applications and contacting government agencies.
Hilary Fairfield, Crosspoint’s treasurer states “Our services continue to be much in demand, and we are pleased to have been able to provide a wide range of support during these difficult times. This has been helped by grants and donations that have helped us to instal our new computer booths and screens. These have made it much easier for people to access our computers safely and we are always happy to help people who do not feel confident in using IT.”
The centre also offers printing and scanning facilities and access to a phone for people who wish to contact government agencies or utility companies.
Kevin adds “We are also continuing to accept food for the Food Bank, in partnership with Westbury Area Network, and can issue food in a crisis on its behalf for those in dire need. Anyone wishing to donate food for those less fortunate can bring food into one of our drop-in sessions.”
The counselling service is still available for adults and for young people who have challenges to their mental health. This service is provided by trained counsellors and is free, although donations are requested according to means. Drop-in sessions are open on Wednesdays 2.30pm to 5pm and Saturdays 10am to 12.30pm. Due to a shortage of volunteers in February the centre will not be open on Mondays.
Volunteers needed
Crosspoint are also in need of friendly volunteers to help with the day-to-day running of the centre. Responsibilities could include helping complete benefit forms, PIP forms and CV preparations.
Volunteers will have good listening skills, are non-judgmental, can communicate easily with people from all backgrounds and are able to help clients use the computer for internet searches, job applications and completing online forms.
All volunteers are asked to complete an application form, provide two referees and attend a short interview with two of the trustees.
Further information can be found on the website – www.crosspoint-westbury.co.uk To contact Crosspoint, please phone 01373 824330 and leave a message or email info@crosspoint-westbury.co.uk
