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Mayor's thumbs-up for homelessness charity

Immediate past Mayor of Aldershot, Cllr. John Marsh, reinforced his support for the town's homelessness charity Step by Step, when he visited recently to present a cheque for £250 from his Charity Fund.

“Councillor Marsh has been a regular visitor here and always shows a great interest in what we are doing,” said Amanda Dubarry, Step by Step's Chief Executive. “We are delighted that he has chosen us as one of the beneficiaries from his Charity Fund, because it recognises the benefits to the community of reducing homelessness among young people.” Cllr. Marsh said he was impressed by the achievements and professionalism of Step by Step and the progress they had made in recent years, and wanted to acknowledge that through his gift.

The Mayor's Charity Fund raises money throughout the Mayor's term of office through events such as the Charity Banquet and Ball. In addition to the nominated beneficiaries, the Mayor can also allocate funds to other local charities that he feels deserve recognition and encouragement for their work in the district.

Step by Step, which celebrates the 15th anniversary of the opening of its first project, Emmaus House, this month, is actively seeking to recruit enthusiastic volunteers prepared to use their skills and experience to expand this valuable work which empowers young people to lift themselves out of the cycle of homelessness and alienation from society.

In addition to providing emergency beds, the charity has a carefully structured programme which encourages young people to take an increasing responsibility for themselves and those around them. Initially, significant staff support and supervision is provided, but this is gradually lessened as clients become more independent.

In addition to accommodation, Step by Step also provides training and development opportunities at its Daylight centre, and the D'n'A project provides counselling for those afflicted by substance abuse. HELP, its award-winning peer education team, go out to schools and youth clubs to provide a powerful message, based on their own experience, of the difficulties and dangers of homelessness..

©2008 Step by Step Partnership Ltd   :   Reg. Charity No. 900308    :   Company No. 2431825