Wingham Timber, a leading provider of quality timber products, proudly delivered its donation to the Sunshine Project at Quex Gardens last week; a double wheelchair accessible picnic bench.
The Sunshine Project is an initiative based within Quex gardens at the Powell-Cotton Museum and offers volunteer opportunities for people with learning disabilities, mental health challenges and those who are socially isolated. It is about improving the lives of young people and adults with specific needs by promoting inclusivity and community engagement within the gardens.
The project was recently awarded funding of £56,960 through the AIM Connected Communities Grant, funded by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS) ‘know your neighbourhood fund’ through Arts Council England (ACE). The Know your Neighbourhood fund aims to support community initiatives that foster connectivity and participation.
The picnic bench will provide a comfortable seating option for visitors to Quex Gardens, ensuring that everyone can enjoy outdoor activities and gatherings in a welcoming environment. This contribution aligns with Wingham Timber’s commitment to corporate social responsibility and making a positive difference in the communities it serves.
Chris Trickett, spokesman for Wingham Timber, said:
“We are honoured to contribute to such a worthy cause and support the invaluable work Quex Gardens and the Sunshine Project are doing in our community. We believe deeply in their mission and vision of engaging volunteer opportunities for adults with learning disabilities, mental health issues, and those who are socially isolated in our community, and we recognize the impact their efforts have on the lives of individuals and families.”
Sarah-Jayne, Gardens Community Engagement Officer at Quex gardens said:
“We are immensely grateful to Wingham Timber for their generous donation. This beautiful picnic bench will not only provide an accessible seating area for our user groups, but it also symbolizes the spirit of inclusivity and community support that lies at the heart of our Sunshine Project.”
The Sunshine Project’s main goals aim to focus on:
- Improved accessibility to volunteering opportunities: The project will create a welcoming environment that caters to diverse needs, ensuring that volunteering opportunities are accessible to all.
- Strengthened organisational relationships: The Powell-Cotton Museum will forge stronger ties with local institutions and other partners engaged in similar work, fostering a sense of unity and collaboration.
- Reduced risk of loneliness: By offering engaging programs and support, the Sunshine Project will contribute to reduced loneliness among its participants.
- Increased levels of social connections: The project will promote social interactions, fostering a sense of belonging and connectedness within the community.
For enquiries regarding the Sunshine Project at Quex Gardens, please contact: Sarah-jayne.Rufaeel@powell-cottonmuseum.org.
For more information about Wingham Timber and its commitment to community initiatives, visit https://winghamtimber.com/.
