BROMSGROVE’S St Basil’s has launched a new community cafe with all proceeds going towards the charity’s commitment to ending youth homelessness.
The St Basil’s Bistro charity café, which was officially opened on Wednesday, is at the heart of Bromsgrove at The Pod, Humphrey Avenue, Charford.
Not only will cash raised through the café help fund the charity’s work, it will also give young people the chance to gain work experience, knowledge of the hospitality industry and mentorship to go on to gainful employment elsewhere.
Coun Kyle Daisley said: “Their aim is to tackle homelessness in young people, and it’s something I actually have a personal experience of with my family.
“One of my brothers was actually a resident at St Basil’s and changed his life.
“So the funds they raise through operating the bistro will go towards facilitating the work they do and I’m very much looking forward to working with them.”
Chief executive of St Basils, Jean Templeton, said: “I’m so pleased to be able to open this cafe. The work that we do is so important and to have a hub in the community is amazing.
“We’ve stepped out of our comfort zone with this cafe, but because of all of the support from the wider community we feel confident we’re going to help may young people.”
The charity, based in New Road, offers support to young people aged between 16 and 23, helping them find safe accommodation and offering them assistance with health problems, employment, education and training.
