Maundy Relief celebrated the charity’s 25th anniversary with an afternoon tea street party.
Yesterday (May 18), the charity’s patron and special guest, actor Julie Hesmondhalgh, attended the celebration outside Maundy Grange in Abbey Street, Accrington.
Beneficiaries, local dignitaries, partners, supporters, volunteers and staff were invited to mark the special occasion along with the Mayor of Hyndburn Councillor Mr Abdul Khan, who cut the cake.
Maundy Relief was established in October 1998 by the dedicated and charismatic founder Dorothy McGregor and her friends and colleagues Len Singleton and Alan Freeman.
Their purpose was to support local people who were struggling in life and to offer an immediate response to poverty so this remains the charity’s mission today.
Dorothy died in 2013 but her example determined the culture of Maundy Relief and those she gathered around her continue to turn no one away and remain the ‘first port of call and last resort’ for many.
Mike Rose, Chair of Trustees at Maundy Relief, said: “We have come a long way in 25 years.
"We hope Dorothy would be proud of what we have continued to build on her behalf and of those who need us most.
“Sadly, it seems there will be a continuing need for ‘an immediate response to poverty and need’ and it is our intention to fulfil our mission for as long as we are required.”
Hyndburn is one of the most disadvantaged areas within the country and since the Covid-19 pandemic and beginning of the cost of living crisis, the charity has identified an increase in demand for support.
Lucy Hardwick, chief executive of Maundy Relief said: “We are proud to be celebrating this special milestone and delighted that everyone connected to the charity can join together to recognise and give thanks for what has been achieved over the last quarter of a century.”
Today Maundy Relief offers a broad range of services including counselling, benefits and other advice, physical and mental health support, advocacy, befriending, and recreational activities.
Staff also provide food parcels and household goods, emergency accommodation and support into rented accommodation and a warm welcome and hot meal to anyone who visits.
Valerii Hrymchak from the Ukrainian community living in Hyndburn under the Homes for Ukraine Programme said: “Maundy Relief has been a tremendous support to us, providing much needed welcome, food, advice and activities.
“We look forward to joining the celebrations to say thank you Maundy!”
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