The North Avenue Youth Centre is the latest group to benefit from Chelmsford Star’s Community Fund.
The Melbourne-based centre received £3,000 from the fund as part of a wider grant from Essex Community Foundation, and will use it as part of its ongoing duties in providing guidance and activities to youngsters up to 21 who may be at risk of entering criminal behaviour.
Charlie Newton, centre manager, said “this grant money will enable us to continue what we’re doing, working to keep the dialogue open between often troubled youngsters and their families, and providing a place to go to help ensure vulnerable children aren’t taken advantage of by adults with criminal intent”. The centre has also been providing an outreach service in local neighbourhoods, and liaising with law enforcement when appropriate.
Pauline Dodd, Chair of the Membership Committee which allocates where grant money is directed, said, “what a wonderful centre Charlie and her team operate. It was clear to see the powerful positive influence they are having on so many youngsters, and their services will likely be all the more important now school’s have broken up for the summer.”
For more information on the North Avenue Youth Centre, visit: www.northavenueyouthcentre.co.uk
To find out more about our community fund: www.chelmsfordstar.coop/community/fund