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There are several services provided by the Manna House. People that are low income or living in poverty can get advice and practical support from the Drop in Centre and Cafe. Some short term assistance such as free food or clothing may be available, but the staff from Manna House do focus on employment and helping people gain experience or education from their Skills Cafe.

Two days per week, on Tuesday and Friday, the Drop In centre will offer many services to the community. People can stop by for help, or even just advice on their challenges. The main programmes are below.

Basic needs are met, including from a food bank and soup kitchen. The Manna House may provide tea, biscuits, and a hot, cooked meal to those facing hunger. An emergency food parcel will also be passed out from the on site food bank to the needy in Cumbria. Booth’s is one provider of many of the donations.

Clothing and practical support is available, depending on donations. The homeless may receive a sleeping bag or blanket, while others such as children may be given a warm winter coat. Small cooking items may also be offered.

Personal hygiene needs can be met, including the use of a shower and laundry. This is one resource used heavily by the homeless in the community.

The Manna House drop in centre has staff that give free advice. Clients on a low income can get help in locating and applying to benefits as well as other general support. There is also sign posting to government programmes and charities in Cumbria County.

The homeless, and people threatened by it, can benefit from the free information. This is a key function of the charity, as they work to prevent homelessness for those in poverty. What the housing can address is as follows.

• Outreach workers will help with completing applications to the South Lakes District Council for deposit help or the Tenancy Deposit Guarantee Scheme (DiGS).
• Receive information and advice on benefits available, as well as applying for them.
• The housing team from Manna will help with landlord mediation to for people threatened by evictions.
• here can be placement into hostels and shelters too that are local to Cumbria.

Skills Cafe will help people gain new and better employment. There are different workshops that address skill sets ranging from IT to food preparation. Clients can access classes on computer, or join crews for gardening and cleaning.

What this will do is allow people the ability to gain experience and skills. This will benefit clients when they are seeking a job in Cumbria, and it can help individuals with getting a job and increasing their living wages.

There are many other services provided by the Manna House, and the post is Castle Lodge, Aynam Road, Kendal. Call the charity at 01539 725534, or stop in at the drop in centre.