Cath from Manchester City Mission
The historic market town of Ashton-under-Lyne lies just six miles east of Manchester city centre. Known for its friendly people and strong community spirit, it is also a place where many face significant challenges, with high levels of economic deprivation and child poverty rates well above the national average.
In communities like Ashton-under-Lyne, practical support can make a life-changing difference.
All are welcome
When I visited Ashton Church of the Nazarene, I was greeted by Daryl, a member of the Manchester City Mission team. For the past 12 months, the mission has been supporting the church’s weekly drop-in session, which offers a welcoming space for people to enjoy a sandwich, a hot drink and the opportunity to connect with others.
A sign outside the church read, “All Are Welcome” and that invitation was reflected by the atmosphere inside.
Volunteers moved around the room, chatting with guests, offering a friendly face and a listening ear, and prayer. For some, the drop-in was an opportunity to catch up with friends. For others, it offered something much more significant, a place of encouragement and support during a difficult time.
Acts 435 is helping meet practical needs
Daryl shared how Acts 435 has been a huge help in supporting guests at the drop-in who are struggling financially.
Daryl described one man he had recently met who was having to start over following a divorce. He was living in a hotel with his son and they literally had nothing. Through the help of Acts 435 donors, the father and son were able to get some clothes and shoes; and with some additional wrap-around care they were able to find their feet again.
"You could see the relief on him and the pressure lifted from him.”
A valuable resource across Manchester City Mission
The weekly drop-in at Ashton Church of the Nazarene is just one of a number of projects Manchester City Mission is involved in. They also run food clubs, prison chaplaincy, a housing project and a homeless ministry.
Across these different areas of work, they regularly come across people facing a variety of practical challenges.
Manchester City Mission’s Acts 435 Advocate, Cath, shared a number of stories which really highlighted the breadth of help they can provide with Acts 435. From providing a young family with a toaster so their three year old daughter can have toast in the morning, to helping a single mum at risk of homelessness after mounting debt issues.
Cath the Acts 435 Advocate for Manchester City Mission shared how it’s not just the big things that make a difference, but even the smallest gifts can provide hope.
Manchester City Mission Director Terry Durose also spoke positively about the charity’s experience of using Acts 435, saying:
“We have used Acts 435 to great effect!”
Since 2020 Acts 435 donors have been able to meet over 330 requests for help from Manchester City Mission. It’s incredible to see the range of things provided and we’re thankful for all of our incredible donors, who have given to help those facing a crisis or hardship.
Partner with us
Every charity has its own community, challenges and approach to supporting people. Acts 435 offers another way to turn compassion into practical action, working alongside the support already being provided.
If you’re a church or local charity and you want to find out more about partnering with Acts 435 head over to: www.acts435.org.uk/partner
If you are interested in partnering with Acts 435 find out more here: https://www.acts435.org.uk/partner
🎥 Watch the Manchester City Mission video here: