“Pay It Forward” – a new community outreach and engagement café project based on Hartington Road, Stockton, has launched today (27 April), and Stockton North MP, Alex Cunningham was there to show his support.
From 2nd May, and every Wednesday afterwards, customers at the Heart of Stockton Community Café, will only pay £1 for a square meal – but will be asked to donate an extra £1 towards providing a meal for someone unable to pay. It is hoped this initiative will help tackle food poverty, but also promote social inclusion within the community. The project will also offer volunteering openings, and provide the opportunity for employment.
Alex said:
I was delighted to get an early preview of “Pay It Forward”, and speak to the people behind this great initiative. Too many people struggle with the effects of food poverty, and projects such as this one by New Walk and Little Sprouts, will go some way to tackle this issue.
The “Pay It Forward” project is also about encouraging social inclusion and breaking down barriers – issues that are more important than ever, and help tackle isolation, promote mental well-being, and create strong community spirit. I hope the initiative is success, and that people in Stockton North and visitors to our town centre, will help make it so.
