The Rotary Shop

In June, members of Penzance Rotary approved the release of a further sum of money to provide hardship grants for young families across West Penwith. Up to £13,000 will be available in the run up to Christmas, for 23 local schools to distribute as they see fit. This will be the fourth such distribution, the first having taken place to help those families most severely affected by the onset of the pandemic lockdown.

The generosity of local people, donating small collectables and good quality antiques and other items that they no longer have a need for, enables the two local Rotary clubs to raise funds that are issued in the form of grants to dozens of local community causes. An example of the Shop's value was seen during the pandemic, when several allocations, each of more than ten thousand pounds were directed to foodbanks and, via local schools, to local households experiencing the severest hardship.

In total, grants to a value well in excess of £150,000 have been distributed to local causes over the time that the Rotary Community Shop has been operating.

The former Peasgood Chemist Shop adjacent to the Market House in Penzance provides the venue for the Rotary Shop. The Shop has no paid staff and is operated by members of the two Rotary Clubs in the area, along with other community minded volunteers. More volunteers are always needed - training is easily undertaken and volunteers enjoy the sociable nature of the work and the knowledge that they are supporting worthwhile local causes. If you have around three hours a week to spare and would like to help out, contact Jon Symons on 07941 860070.

In the past, amongst scores of organisations, beneficiaries have included:

 The Hope Project is a non-profit making initiative that has been running under the umbrella of Shekinah Christian Church in Penzance since 2003. The project has been able to help many people with new household appliances, carpets, curtains, and furniture. 

 MusicAbility embraces the unique and life-enhancing potential of music to stimulate a broad spectrum of educational and health benefits within the community.

 Trelya supports children and young people from severely disadvantaged areas in West Cornwall since 2001. With an outstanding track record of engaging the hardest to reach children and young people, we can help to turn their lives around. 

 GOFA is a furniture and electrical appliance reuse project based in Penzance, Cornwall. We provide donated furniture and household electrical goods at affordable prices to people on low incomes.

 WAC inspires and supports enthusiastic residents to make great healthy food using local produce. Dedicated volunteers promote and demonstate healthy eating on a shoestring budget. WAC has a passion for encouranging people to produce cheap, locally sourced, healthy soups, tasty breads and juices.

 Street Pastors bring reassurance to a community, so that people know that the Church is there for them in a practical way. The role is one of listening, caring and helping – working with a non-judgemental attitude and offering care and help without prejudice.

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