Good cause still going strong

One of Canterbury’s best-loved charities might be celebrating 20 successful years, but it shows no sign of slowing down.

Volunteers continue to work tirelessly for Necessary Furniture, which collects unwanted household goods to resell at bargain prices to hard-up homemakers.

Now celebrating its 20th anniversary, chairman and joint founder Chris Gay says the charity has come a long way since it started out with a handful of volunteers, a battered old van and a lock-up garage.

It now has 10 staff, a fleet of vans and two warehouses where tons of goods are processed every week.

Visitors to an open day on Saturday were able to see the huge range of household goods available and chat to staff and volunteers. There was also face-painting for children, a treasure hunt and a raffle.

Chris, who will be 78 in September, says he plans to step down later this year, but is proud of what the charity continues to achieve in supporting those in need.

He said: “It’s become a huge success and brought happiness to thousands, but we continue to need income to make it work, particularly as any grants have long dried up.

“We are lucky to have such a loyal and dedicated workforce and team of volunteers.”

The warehouses are piled high with sofas, tables, chairs, fridges, beds, mattresses and all manner of household items, from curtains and lampshades to kitchen equipment.

The charity claims it can furnish and equip a small home for just £300.

For more information visit www.necessaryfurniture.org.uk

Chris Gay, left, with Necessary Furniture van driver Kevin Waters

FM4766702 Eli and Willow Maclean from Chartham Primary with Peter Pan and Rapunzel