We are extremely delighted that we are the latest recipient of a Cost of Living Crisis Grant from the John Sykes Foundation.
We were awarded a grant of £1,000 to provide critical funding for ReadiStreet and ReadiFood and help Faith Christian Group continue to make a positive impact in the Reading area that they serve.
John Sykes, Founder and Chair of Trustees, visited Andy Dickens, Director of Faith Christian Group, to present the grant and learn more about their important work at their Office on Boulton Road, alongside Wendy Harris who runs ReadiStreet and Alison Peyton who runs ReadiFood.
The grant comes at a crucial time for Faith Christian Group, as they have experienced increased demand for their services due to COVID-19 and now the Cost of Living Crisis.
On the visit, John Sykes presented 10x 2-man tents for the homeless, 3 coffee flasks for the soup kitchen, and a hot water dispenser for ReadiStreet. These items will have a direct impact on the lives of 50-60 people they serve, up to five times per week.
The remainder of the grant will be utilised at ReadiFood to support their Food Bank and provide them with the opportunity to be able to purchase food items that would not ordinarily be donated to them.
Andy Dickens commented, “We are incredibly grateful for this grant from the John Sykes Foundation and it is great to partner with John and his team; their generous gift will help and support those at most need in our town.”
“Help with shelter for the homeless and food for those who are struggling. The need is growing and without help like this we wouldn’t be able to do this work.”
John Sykes added, “The rising cost of essential food and energy has created a “second health emergency” after Covid, and more people who were previously “just about managing” now need support, and we are so passionate in our support for the important work of Faith Christian Group. I have known Wendy of ReadiStreet for some time now and greatly admire her unwavering duty to serve those in Reading who are less fortunate. ReadiFood’s food bank service is so well managed and organised, and Alison does an admirable job managing the volunteers, ensuring the stock is rotated in date order, and supply and demand is met as best they can.”
If you work or belong to a local Charity or Group, and would like to know more or apply for a Cost of Living Crisis Grant, please visit https://www.johnsykesfoundation.org/cost-of-living-crisis…