Paisley Drop-in Centre

“We are incredibly grateful for the continued support from the Ellen and Ian Graham Foundation,” said Alan Nicholson, CEO. “Their commitment to our work allows us to provide essential services—warm meals, meaningful activities, and 1-to-1 support—to those facing extreme hardship, poverty, and social isolation. This funding strengthens our ability to meet growing demand and helps ensure no one in our community is left without support.”

“Go read the book Miracles from Mayhem: the story of May Nicholson, go be with the people of Paisley and Ferguslie, go meet Alan Nicholson and his team and you will immediately get a feel for what the Preshal Trust stands for. The people of Scotland are precious (Preshal) and we want to remind them that they are not alone. We are happy to support the Preshal Trust again and will continue to fight poverty, inequality, social isolation and loneliness head-on with them.” Ian Tracy & Alexis Graham on behalf of the Ellen & Ian Graham Foundation.

What the Grant Supports

The Paisley Outreach Project offers a programme of diversionary and wellbeing activities designed to aid recovery, reduce loneliness, build confidence, and promote active citizenship. Our activities include:

• Cooking sessions and “cooking on a budget” classes

• Arts and crafts, IT skills, board games, quizzes

• Budgeting support

• 1-to-1 emotional and practical support

• Access to food, warmth, clothing, and advice

Thanks to the Foundation’s support, we will continue to provide:

• Two-course hot lunches

• Breakfast (toast) and tea/coffee/biscuits throughout the day

• Drop-in sessions offering warm meals and free, accessible activities

• Hall hire

• Chef and kitchen assistant time to prepare meals and deliver cooking sessions

• Support staff assisting group and 1-to-1 service delivery

Meeting Community Need at a Critical Time

The cost-of-living crisis continues to affect our community deeply. Increasing numbers of individuals and families are coming to us experiencing acute hardship—struggling to afford food, heating, and even basic necessities. Many face benefit sanctions or periods of no income, leading to rising demand for our breakfast and lunch clubs and emergency food packages.

Our project directly addresses two major priorities:

• Reducing poverty and inequality

• Tackling social isolation and loneliness

A Partnership Making a Real Difference

The support of the Ellen and Ian Graham Foundation Inc. ensures we can continue to be a lifeline for people who need somewhere warm, safe, welcoming, and supportive to turn to. We are deeply appreciative of their commitment to our mission and look forward to continuing this valued partnership.