A Jersey charity, The Grace Trust, provides year-round support to vulnerable individuals, assisting between 700 and 750 people annually who face poverty, loneliness, or addiction. General manager Vinni Jones said the organization, operating from its base on Lewis Street in St Helier, aims to bring joy to those struggling, noting an increase in the diversity of people seeking help, including more older individuals needing community support.
The Trust supports 500 people each year through its food bank and also organizes activities such as singing, art sessions, and Saturday lunches. Jones emphasized the increased demand during the Christmas season, a time that can be particularly difficult for many. He said the food bank offered extra festive items and that recently, 92 people enjoyed a Christmas meal at St Paul's Centre, supported by 20 volunteers and entertainment from Fiddler's Green and the Trust's Parklife choir.
The Grace Trust's work reflects a broader trend of community organizations stepping in to address social needs. In Jersey, as in many places, issues such as poverty and loneliness are not confined to specific times of the year, requiring consistent and accessible support systems. Jones encouraged anyone in need to visit the center. The Trust's commitment to providing assistance throughout the year underscores the importance of sustained community engagement in addressing complex social challenges.
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