Cheshire Community Foundation Donor Storengy Boosts Motherwell Cheshire’s Free Laundrette Project in Winsford
Susie Roberts here, bringing you an inside glimpse into a remarkable initiative that has received support from Storengy through us at Cheshire Community Foundation. Last week we went to visit Motherwell Cheshire, a leading local women’s charity. They have successfully secured funding to launch a groundbreaking community laundrette in Winsford, with our generous donors Storengy playing a pivotal role in funding this endeavour.
The grant from Cheshire Community Foundation, donated by local business Storengy, along with support from other organisations, has empowered Motherwell Cheshire to establish ‘Edna’s Laundrette’ at the New Images Youth and Community Centre on Nixon Drive. Named after Edna Fletcher, a dedicated volunteer with 38 years of service at the centre, the laundrette will offer free washing and drying facilities to families facing financial challenges.
Edna’s Laundrette aims to bring the community together by providing a space for residents to do their laundry free of charge twice a week. Founder of Motherwell Cheshire, Kate Blakemore, emphasised the significance of the project and its intended broader impact: “The aim is to bring women together in a very simple way, as they wash their clothes. Everyone’s energy costs have shot up, and as well as saving money for families, we hope to beat isolation and bring the community together.”
The laundrette project has garnered support from various organisations and businesses, including AO.com, which has contributed washers and dryers. Storengy’s contribution underscores the local commitment to addressing practical needs and fostering community cohesion.
The funding we provide helps ensure the sustainability of projects like Edna’s Laundrette, offering vital support to families facing financial constraints. Kate further explained, “This new project has come directly from disadvantaged mums who currently access our baby bank for donated baby clothing and necessities. Many are unable to afford to dry their washing or heat their homes, impacting their physical and mental health.”
In addition to the laundrette, Motherwell Cheshire has established a satellite hub at New Images, providing free baby bundles of clothes and comfort packs as part of its Period Dignity campaign. The charity’s hub in Crewe serves as a collection centre for donated items, addressing the demand for recycled school uniforms and baby necessities.
Edna, the laundrette’s namesake, expressed her gratitude, stating, “New Images is such a happy place, and the laundrette will allow it to support more people. It’s an honour to have it named after me.”
For more on Motherwell Cheshire’s impactful initiatives, including Edna’s Laundrette, follow them on Facebook or visit motherwellcheshirecio.com. Cheshire Community Foundation takes pride in championing local initiatives that make a tangible difference in our community.