The team came together in late June 2024 with a common goal: to give back to the community in meaningful ways that would support residents facing challenges in their daily lives. These challenges range from navigating the financial strain of the cost-of-living crisis to seeking guidance on accessing assistance during times of crisis, including benefits and other resources.
Eager to forge links and build a strong network working alongside other organisations to help the residents of Millom and Around the Combe so they can be signposted to those most qualified to respond to each particular need.
We initiated the formation of the Millom and Around the Combe Community Group (MACCG). We are immensely grateful for the support provided by the South Copeland Disability Group (SCDG), who graciously took our fledgling group under their wing. Their guidance and assistance have been instrumental in helping us progress and establish a solid foundation for our endeavours.
The group then shifted its focus to priorities, with the first being to provide food to those who were facing financial struggles. Our goal was to offer food for free, without requiring memberships, passing judgment, or setting criteria. Our aim was to combat hunger and reduce food waste by providing food to those in need.
As we began distributing food, we quickly realised the extent of the need in our community. Many individuals were struggling to put food on their tables, and the worry of not having enough to eat was a constant burden. Each week, we have been able to distribute a minimum of 20 bags of food. With additional resources, we could meet even higher demand.
Our circumstances rapidly improved as we embarked on the journey of running a community shop, where we could provide pre-loved items at affordable prices to ensure accessibility for all. This endeavour was made possible through the generous support of an amazing local business in our town and a particularly supportive landlord. Additionally, we received invaluable advice and guidance from Mr. Bill Amos of Whamos Ltd, who provided IT solutions and helped create an outstanding website.
The overwhelming support from the community we strive to serve surpassed our expectations. In no time, our shop was up and running, ready to cater to the needs of our customers. The friendship and goodwill we have experienced mean more to us than words can express.
With the invaluable advice and support of CVS, particularly Beresford Moyle Rosser (Berry), we have been guided towards our next step in this journey. The recommendation was for us to establish a Community Interest Company (CIC), which would allow us to further our objectives in assisting as many members of our community as possible. With the ongoing assistance from CVS and The Cumbria Social Enterprise Team, we are making strides towards implementing our plans and expanding our network to collaborate with essential organisations and groups. Our ultimate goal is to enhance the well-being of our community, which remains at the core of our mission.
At present we have three Directors, each possessing unique skill sets that are essential in propelling us towards our goals of achievement and growth within our community. None of us take a wage and we are supported by a team of 6 amazing and selfless volunteers.
Sarah Sharpe whose role is: Food Operations Manager and Funding, Sarah possesses a unique skill set that not only showcases her strong desire to help the community but also demonstrates her hands-on experience in sourcing and applying for funding. This invaluable experience has allowed us to provide food for a significantly larger number of residents in need of assistance.
From her volunteer work during the COVID-19 pandemic to her previous role as a Charity Trustee, Sarah has witnessed first-hand the profound impact even the smallest act of kindness can have on someone's day. She works tirelessly behind the scenes, conducting research and reaching out to organisations who can help us achieve our objectives.
Sarah's compassion, unwavering principles, and strong family values serve as the driving force behind her actions. She is motivated by the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others, regardless of their age or background. Her goal is simple - to enhance the lives of those in need without passing judgment. Her enthusiasm for completing forms and her eagerness to acquire new skills are truly commendable. Her thirst for knowledge is her superpower, complemented by her warmth and ability to build lasting friendships.
However, if faced with individuals who mistreat others or act unfairly, Sarah transforms into a formidable force to be reckoned with.
Kath Edwards whose role is: Shop Management, with her extensive experience in managing charity shops and wealth of knowledge, Kath is truly unparalleled and the ideal candidate for the position. Her genuine and unwavering desire to assist those in need shines through, bringing warmth and a genuine love for people to our shop. Every visitor is greeted as if they were a long-lost friend, and Kath's reputation for providing a warm welcome precedes her. It's no wonder many refer to our little shop as "Kath's Shop" - a name we are proud to embrace.
Kath's commitment to helping as many individuals as possible is evident in her efforts to ensure all prices are affordable, giving everyone the opportunity to purchase necessary items. She goes above and beyond to alleviate the burden on those facing financial constraints. Kath's exceptional organisational skills ensure our shop operates seamlessly, a task she effortlessly accomplishes.
Sue Dust whose role is: Management/Admin, Sue is the dedicated individual responsible for ensuring that all paperwork, including policies, forms, documents, and our website, is meticulously organised and up to date. She brings a wealth of experience of charity work and devotes countless hours to meticulously reviewing and perfecting all necessary paperwork, ensuring that everything is in order. In addition to her meticulous attention to detail, Sue collaborates closely with the rest of the team to provide support wherever needed. Her extensive experience in the charity sector has equipped her with a keen understanding of the essential elements that must be in place. Furthermore, her passion for networking and collaborating with other organisations has allowed her to cultivate strong relationships and partnerships. Known for wearing her heart on her sleeve, Sue is deeply empathetic and forms meaningful connections with those around her. Her compassionate nature and genuine care for others make her an invaluable asset to our team.
Our main objective is to become a central network hub where individuals can find a welcoming and non-judgmental environment for support. We also strive to build strong partnerships with organisations across the county to ensure that the communities of Millom and around the Combe areas receive the help and assistance they need during times of crisis or need. Through working closely with partner organisations we can signpost clients to the correct organisation who can assist with their situation to achieve the best results for the community.
Any funds raised once our core bills are paid, every penny goes back into helping us to help our community in whichever way is required at the time of need, be that buying someone in crisis a weeks shopping to providing clothing from our shop.
Where Compassion Meets Action!