Massive cash boost for Wirral Autistic Society jobs project (From Wirral Globe)
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Massive cash boost for Wirral Autistic Society jobs project
12:43pm Monday 4th April 2011 in News Exclusive By Craig Manning
Massive cash boost for Wirral Autistic Society jobs project
WIRRAL Autistic Society’s project to create a new shop and cafeteria at its garden centre has been given a massive cash boost of £323,000.
The money from Social Investment Business will be used to fund work already underway at Greens Garden Centre in Bromborough Village.
The shop and cafeteria will open for business in the early spring.
The garden centre has been operating for some years at the site but it is hoped the new venture will increase business as well as providing real work opportunities for people with autism.
Society fundraiser Rick Myers told the Globe: “We are thrilled to have been awarded this grant.
"The existing garden centre is rather basic, but the new project will be a very professional operation which we hope will attract people from all over Wirral and beyond.
“With a café, shop and wide variety of plants for sale it will be ideal for family outings and people will know they will be helping a local charity at the same time.
"It will also offer real employment opportunities for the people with autism.”
The society is inviting readers to help raise funds by taking part in the Wirral Coastal Walk on Sunday, May 22.
The 15-mile walk organised by North Wirral Rotary Club is from Seacombe Ferry to Thurstaston Country Park Visitor Centre.
Rick Myers said: “It is a great opportunity to support our very worthy appeal while enjoying a healthy pastime along the fantastic Wirral coastline.
“Almost anyone can participate and you do not even have to walk the whole distance as there are finishing points at various stages along the way.”
Information packs and sponsorship forms are available from Rick on 482 3145, 07887 631218 or rick.myers@wirral.autistic.org
Social Investment Business's website explains it is the fastest-growing social investor in the UK and manages Government funds totalling more than £400m, available to charities, social enterprises and community groups.
