Hello, today’s Advent Calendar window opens for the Encompass charity in Rushden who support those in the community who are facing food poverty, homelessness and addiction. The charity was renamed Encompass last year because its mission is to enable disadvantaged people to live independent and fulfilled lives. New starting in January is their Day Centre, in the centre of Rushden, it’s designed to be a space for those facing the aforementioned challenges, and to come and get support, food or to meet others.
Encompass Rushden and Higham Food Banks both operate on a self referral basis. You do not need to be referred by someone to get a food parcel. Rushden Food Bank opens every Tuesday and Thursday 9:30am – 12:30pm at 19-21 Church Street. Higham Ferrers Food Bank opens every Tuesday 9:30am – 12noon at Higham Ferrers Working Mens Club. You will need to go to the foodbank nearest to you. You may be asked for ID when you attend the foodbank. Food parcels are for people experiencing immediate financial crisis.
Encompass Rushden Homeless Accommodation provide a roof and support for those who are rough sleeping or at risk of rough sleeping, in North Northamptonshire. The accommodation is opened 24/7, 365 days a year. It is a short-medium term accommodation. Staff and volunteers work with residents to move address barriers to housing and move them into permanent accommodation. Their Recovery House is an 8-bed residential drug & alcohol rehabilitation centre for men. It is based in Rushden but welcomes residents from any area in the UK.
Watch the video for a discussion that I had with Jo Burns, CEO, about what Encompass does, how to access their services, how to support them and how to volunteer for them. We also talk about the support they have received as a Co-op Local Cause last year and, thanks to Co-op Members, how they are now able to launch their new Day Care Centre which promises to give those in need in Rushden and Higham Ferrers a completely new level of support with cooked food and a chance to just sit and chat. This video is over 15 minutes long because they do so much, I hope that you enjoy our discussion, have a fab Christmas!