Home Start’s future in doubt on anniversary

Home Start’s future in doubt on anniversary

12 August 2015

A CHARITY that has helped thousands of families thrive for 25 years has issued a stark warning about its future.

Home Start Down District had worked with over 6,000 families since it was established in 1990 but has faced mounting financial difficulties since the Children’s Fund was abolished four years ago, leading to a severe funding shortage.

As the charity prepares for a 25th anniversary celebration next month, its senior organiser Dorothy McMullan has warned money is now running out.

Although Mrs McMullan said she is delighted to reach their 25th year milestone, she said Home Start’s financial position was now “dire.”

She said it had been relying on its financial reserves since its funding cut in 2011 and would run out of money by next March if a new source of income is not found.

“There was a time when I feared we would not get to this birthday but we have been economical and streamlined our services as much as possible,” she said.

“We closed our Newcastle office and now serve people from Ballynahinch and Downpatrick. It has been tough but we have managed so far.

“We provide eight support groups in Ballynahinch, Crossgar, Drumaness, Castlewellan and Newcastle helping children prepare for school and providing social opportunities. But we need a cash injection and if we do not find one we will be forced to close in March.

“It has never been this close to the line before, The situation is dire.”

Driven by a passion to continue to help families under pressure, she said she was as determined as ever to maintain Home Start’s service across the district but increasingly concerned this would become impossible.

She said an anniversary fundraising challenge and family fun day would be held next month in a bid to help the charity maintain its commitment to 250 families per year.

Mrs McMullan is hoping as many people as possible will take part in the Ninja Challenge, which will be held in Donard Park, Newcastle, on Sunday, September 13.

She said this event had the potential to raise £20,000 for the charity, which she said would tide it over while other funding applications are made.

“Our volunteers have a passion for what they do and I love my job,” she said.

“It is so rewarding when you go out to a family and they are so happy to see you. It is great to see you are making a difference.

“When you see a mum or dad turning their lives around and the children thriving as a result it is great. The volunteers help children with reading or writing or occupy younger babies so the parents can concentrate on their older siblings.

“We always have a waiting list of families seeking our help and this Ninja Challenge could make a real difference. We hope groups and individuals will take part in what will be a great event.”

She said she hopes businesses, friends and families will consider putting forward teams for the forthcoming fundraiser.

Each person in a team of 10 has to raise £100 and there are prizes for the winning team and for those who raise most funds. The team-building event will include It’s a Knock Out style challenges.

Registration will need to be complete by Friday, August 28, and costs £15.

For further information access HomeStart’s Down District page or email downpatrick@homestartdd.org.uk or telephone 02844 615727.

The family fun day will be held alongside the Ninja Challenge and will include a host of activities including archery, badge-making, laser tag, parachute games and puppet shoes.

HomeStart is also seeking candidates for a new eight week volunteer training programme that will be held in the autumn.