Salvation Army plans for a mobile community space for Ebbsfleet and the surrounding area are moving forward after funding was secured for the vehicle.
Designed to bring vital services directly to where people live, work and gather, local leaders of the church and charity say the new space will offer a welcoming environment for community support, advice, activities and pastoral care. The space will be provided in an exhibition vehicle which should hit the road next spring.
The specially adapted vehicle will provide a flexible space offering everything from health and wellbeing workshops, youth activities and The Salvation Army’s Employment Plus service which helps people to find and stay in work.
The mobile space will also provide opportunities to work with schools and strengthen partnerships with other organisations and the communities in the area.
Louise Finch is Pioneer Leader for The Salvation Army in Ebbsfleet Garden City. She said: “We are thrilled to be taking this significant step. This is a fast-developing area and we want to meet people where they are; offering friendship, support and practical help. This will enable us to respond flexibly to the needs of this growing community and break down barriers, and that is the beauty of what we are trying to achieve. We would also like to thank all the local community organisations and groups for their donations and fundraising towards the cost of the vehicle.”
The mobile community space is being delivered with the support of external funding partners, Ebbsfleet Development Corporation and Dartford Borough Council. Spokespeople from both organisations said they were delighted.
Ian Piper, Ebbsfleet Development Corporation Chief Executive Officer said: “We’re pleased to have provided funding support for this initiative, which will create additional community and meeting space for residents in Ebbsfleet and the surrounding areas. This project directly reflects what local residents have told us they want to see in the area – more opportunities to come together, connect and foster local connections.”
Jeremy Kite, Leader of Dartford Borough Council, said: “This is an amazing achievement for the Salvation Army and I’m proud we could support them and be a part of the journey. It’s not always easy to get the support you need, especially when you don’t have the resources or time to travel far. This mobile space expands their reach and creates so many more opportunities to provide for the community. Well done to everyone involved and I look forward to seeing the space in action.”
The vehicle is now in production. Updates on its progress will be provided periodically.