The Assistant Provincial Grand Master, Andrew Moule visited the Auckland Youth and Community Centre (AYCC) as a follow up after an MCF grant was awarded to them in September of this year. The award of £10,000.00 was to cover a period of 2 years for the general day to day operational running costs of the charity. Andrew was met by Bill Niblo, the Chairperson on the Board of Trustees, and was given a full tour of the building showing the facilities offered to the children to enable them to participate in many activities.
Auckland Youth and Community Centre (AYCC) is a much-loved community hub in one of England’s most disadvantaged housing estates. The charity supports local children widening their horizons and improving their mental and physical health. AYCC run several youth provisions and sitting in the top 0.5% most socio-economically deprived in England, the charity go above and beyond to tackle the complex local challenges of generational poverty and disadvantage.
They run after school clubs, a disability group, detached outreach and a Holiday Hunger scheme which provides packed lunches during school holidays. They also work closely with the local schools to support and supplement the young people’s education. Some of the volunteers and qualified youth workers used to attend the clubs and with the help of AYCC they have gained qualifications and work experience they never would have had the opportunity to access otherwise.
Each year the charity supports 428 young people. Case studies from parents are very positive – “AYCC has given her the tools to cope with many of the difficult situations she has had to face”. This is just one of the many testaments recorded by parents.
The children started to arrive after school, and it was obvious from the happy faces that this facility was a joy to them all. Hot dogs with ketchup were to follow their play time a sure-fire children’s favorite.
Well done to all the amazing staff for your dedication and challenging work.
