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There are several programmes run by the Shrewsbury Ark organisation. Anyone that needs to learn more on how they can assist should use the drop in centre they run. While there the person can meet with a volunteer to go over the schemes available, which are various.

The exact programmes will vary throughout the year, as Shrewsbury Ark does rely on donations from people across Shropshire and they also depend on volunteers to provide the services. In the past the organisation has served hot meals and helped families on a low income apply for benefits. The welfare centre on site is where people can get access to local housing agencies or use a computer for free.

Food from Shrewsbury Ark soup kitchen

Volunteers keep this service running. They prepare and serve the meals to families. People that drop in may be on a low income or homeless. Other people using the soup kitchen are seeking a hot lunch or waiting on their benefit applications to be processed. Not only is a meal and drinks served, but volunteers will also spend time befriending the client. They welcome them to the soup kitchen and ensure they get the support they need.

Shrewsbury Ark is one of the charities that can provide vouchers to the Shropshire food banks. Those locations will provide a parcel of food to the family. The box may have enough to feed them for up to 3 days, so it is a form of short term support. The aim of this is to give the person more time to overcome their financial hardship.

Additional services for families on a low income

The welfare centre is the main place to drop in at. The aim is to provide emergency assistance while at the same time direct the client to programmes for ending poverty. All this is available while the person is eating a hot meal prepared by the team. Some of the services offered are below.

Employment training schemes are held by volunteers. They hold mock interviews with someone needing a job. They also assist with CV preparation and provide advice on this.

Referrals and signposting are provided by Shrewsbury Ark. The welfare centre has extensive information on assistance programmes available. Clients can learn about housing associations if they need deposit help or are threatened by homelessness. Other programmes are for health care, such as signposting to mental health or drug rehab workers.

The aim is to ensure the service use has the ability to call the best organisation for their need. This is mostly done as the resources from Shrewsbury Ark are limited. The volunteer will also stay in touch with the individual. This is done to ensure that all follow up is completed.

More practical support is at this location too. For example, if someone needs access to laundry or a shower, that is on site. This can be used by someone preparing for a job interview, as being presentable will be a big advantage. There may also be free clothing given for the interview as well if Ark has the goods available.

The charity operates from 10 Castle Foregate, SY1 2DJ, Shrewsbury. The main phone number is 01743 363305.