A CHARITY which supports families across Wokingham borough has celebrated its 20th anniversary.
Home-Start Wokingham District, which was started by Angie Mycock in Wargrave in February 1997, pairs volunteers with families who need additional support due to disability, separation, multiple births, bereavement or mental health issues.
The nationwide charity was founded in 1973 by Margaret Harrison who realised that if parents could get support and friendship from another parent, in the home, they would be better equipped to cope with the many difficulties life can bring, and would be able to give their children the best possible start.
The Wokingham branch celebrated their 20th anniversary during their Annual General Meeting at their offices in Cutbush Lane, Shinfield, on Wednesday, November 8, where they also honoured volunteer Jackie Hobbs for 10 years’ service.
Scheme manager Louise Jones said: “We had a very successful AGM celebrating 20 years of Home-Start in Wokingham. Our Chair Helen Diffenthal opened proceedings and alongside her talk we heard from our Scheme Manager who presented an evaluation of the last five years of our work highlighting that we have supported over 540 families during that time and with over 1,500 children.
“We ended the morning by issuing certificates to our volunteers celebrating the support they offer most notably to Jackie Hobbs who has volunteered for 10 years. This was followed with a celebration cake.”
