Cherish (established 2012) are a group of people who reach out to anyone (50+) and meet regularly for food and companionship. Loneliness and isolation is a massive issue - our goal is to combat this by offering friendship, help and support. From OpenWell Life Centre, Southport, we run regular themed events and are about to start a fortnightly cafe. Food is at the heart of all the events we do and meals/events are provided free or at a subsidised cost. On Christmas day we host a three course meal with entertainment and gifts (all free of charge). This is growing, last year we had 40 guests. We rely totally on the community, volunteers and local businesses to support this event. Our aim is to do everything in excellence. To help us achieve this we really need your backing and pledges to purchase and install essential kitchen equipment; -electric hob, dishwasher, hot water urn, soup kettle and sandwich maker. We really appreciate your support and pledges - thank you.

What we'll deliver:

• Fully functional working kitchen.
• Hot meals in the Winter months.
• A place to come and meet others, eat and chat.
• Expansion - welcome more people.

Why it's a great idea:

Our first Christmas day event was 2102. Cherish got it's name 2014, when guests said they 'cherished' each others company and feel part of a family. Over the years we have hosted many events without a permanent base but 2018 saw us move into our new 'home' at OpenWell Life Centre. This allows us to provide greater support for those socially isolated or in need of company. Our location puts us right in the heart of the local community that we cater to. We provide links to other activities including monthly coffee mornings and a parent & toddler group. We also work alongside Riverside Housing Association in supporting events they offer. Although we have a kitchen, due to lack of equipment we have had to rely on outside caterers/cold buffets for most events. With your help we would be able to significantly enhance the capability of Cherish to support the growing number of beneficiaries throughout the year, but particularly during the winter months.

Steps to get it done:

• Purchase of kitchen equipment from local suppliers.
• Contractor to install/adapt electricity/water supply where required.
• Contractor to install fixed equipment and test.