A folk concert is to be held next weekend in an attempt to raise funds for The Salvation Army’s Christmas appeal here on the Island. The Salvation Army on the Island does an enormous amount of work to support local homeless people out of rough sleeping and help them move into safe accommodation. Services provided range from operating a hostel for adult homeless, providing hot meals, blankets and hygiene kits to rough sleepers, providing a night shelter and offering a range of advice and counselling services. Motivated by their Christian faith the Army has been fighting inequality and helping to transform Island lives for many years. At Christmas time the local branch also provides a Christmas lunch for the homeless and those who may be lonely and on their own. For some years now an annual folk concert has been held to help raise funds for this Christmas Day lunch. Originally started by Ruth Twyman Lockyer over 10 years ago, this event has raised many hundreds of pounds. Captain Rodney Bean of the Salvation Army said:
”Christmas Day can be a particularly hard time for homeless people on the Island – we welcome them to our hall in Newport for a hearty meal and warm company. These concerts are invaluable in helping us to provide this service.”
This years concert is being organised by local folk singer, John Bentley. John said:
“We have a great programme of entertainment lined up – folk songs, carols, poetry and story telling – something for everyone.”
The Island is fortunate in having a very active folk club community and a range of local performers are supporting the concert and will be taking to the stage. The concert is being held at 19:00 on Saturday 9th December at the Salvation Army Hall, 72 Pyle St in Newport. Entry is free and those attending are asked to generously donate what they can to help fund the Christmas Day lunch. All are welcome to come along for an enjoyable evening in support of a great cause.
