Homelessness charity Shiloh bids for backers to help kit out its new HQ

Shiloh has launched a crowd-funding appeal to pay for the £17,500 needed for kitchen fittings, furniture and decorations at its new HQ in Masbrough.

The charity, which is moving from its current base on Westgate, has been granted a long-term lease on peppercorn rent by Rotherham Borough Council at the former weighbridge premises on Station Road.

And it is using an innovative crowd-funding initiative to meet the cost of converting and decorating the disused building.

Under crowd-funding, members of the public are invited to pledge a donation towards an appeal total, with the money only payable if the target is met by a particular date

Shiloh have until April 25 to attract enough supporters and reach the £17,500 they need.

Shiloh’s services development manager, John McDonnell described the crowd-funding drive as a “short, sharp appeal”, adding: “A successful kitchen appeal will enable us to provide a warm meal and welcome to people in need.  

“In fact, not just one meal, but over 20,000 a year.  

“The provision of food not only meets the immediate and often urgent need our guests have, but allows us the opportunity to build relationships and help people to rebuild their lives.  

“The kitchen has always been at the heart of our operation and the new kitchen is central to our plans.

“The new site needs significant work to provide a suitable and long term home for the charity.  

“Once complete, the new, larger site will enable the charity to provide more and better services to our guests.”

You can help the appeal by visiting http://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/shilohrotherham and pledging a donation.