In January 2024, the Worshipful Master of Pomfret Lodge No 360, Richard Assenheim and his wife Catherine visited the local charity, “Hope Centre”, in Northampton, to present the charity donation of £485 raised by Brethren and their friends and families at their recent Lodge Ladies Night.

 Catherine Assenheim, Michelle Smith of The Hope Centre and W.Bro RichardAssenheim

This was the choice of Cathy as they have a range of services to support those facing hardship, hunger and homelessness, and offer self-help schemes.

Michelle Smith of the Hope Centre said, “Northampton Hope tackles hardship and exclusion. Our work helps people experiencing problems of disadvantage and marginalisation, including hardship, homelessness, addiction and mental health. As well as giving practical support, we focus on helping people to help themselves.”

“Hand-Up” is their service for the homeless or sofa-surfing community. If you are sofa surfing, homeless or have nowhere to cook, you can drop into “Hand Up” at Oasis house for free hot drinks, breakfast and a hot meal. They can also provide clothes and showers as well as a range of support services. People can get help with access to bank accounts, healthcare advice, housing assessment and referrals, benefits advice, settled status support, mental health and addiction support.

They can also access the “Learning For Living” service to get training and help to get back to work. Their “Learning4Living” project also provides a range of activities to support people in the community. They run creative groups and employability skills workshops. The aim of their service is to build confidence and upskill in a fun and engaging environment. They also run community food larders which are a membership programme that provides access to donated and surplus food at heavily discounted rates. The Larders are run by volunteers who are committed to getting food to those in our communities facing hardship.