A COMMUNITY café and support centre that provide a lifeline for the local community has received a welcome boost.

Knutsford Town Council has awarded a £20,000 grant to support the work of The Welcome.

This charity provides support, events and access to essential services for all age groups.

Their work helps to reduce the impact of people living in crisis, combat social isolation, improve physical and mental wellbeing, alongside building a strong and vibrant community.

Since it was founded in 1997 as a mobile coffee shop, it has developed into part of the everyday life of many residents in the St John’s Wood area.

Chief executive Nick Sherburn said: “We are absolutely delighted to have gained the support of Knutsford Town Council by way of grant funding.

“Our respective organisations serve the same community and we are proud that the council recognises the vital support and services we provide, and our community deserves.

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The grant will fund central premises costs enabling the charity to focus on securing income for its operational costs and delivering services for the local community.

Outgoing mayor Cllr Peter Coan said: “The work The Welcome does for the residents of St John’s Wood ward is fantastic, so we’re only too pleased to be supporting them.

“From providing advice to those in need, hosting a monthly citizens advice drop in and running a meals on wheels scheme, it’s a busy charity and this grant helps them focus on their service delivery.”

Advisors at the Welcome provide support five days a week and can offer guidance on employment, benefits, hardship, housing and emergency assistance.

The Welcome also hosts a Citizens Advice service once a month, provides a Meals on Wheels service and hosts community activities such as a lunch club, knitting group and coffee mornings.

The charity also co-ordinates The Bread and Butter Thing which enables 80 households to access more affordable food every week.