A GOOD cause in Alloa has launched a Christmas appeal in the run up to the festive season.

Community House Alloa, which has been supporting the community fore more than 20 years from its base at Forth Crescent, has launched the appeal so families in difficult circumstances do not have to go without gifts this year.

The charity, which recently featured in the Advertiser with the retirement of project manager Elaine McDonagh, has also recently updated its schedule of activities with hopes to reach out to more and more people in the community.

Shelley-Anne Aitken, who has a background in social work and supporting women affected by domestic violence, has taken over as project manager since staff bid farewell to Elaine.

Community House was founded on a Christian ethos and that will remain the case.

Shelley-Anne, who is looking to drive up engagement, explained: “Whilst there is still the Christian ethos, we want to open up and really show equality and diversity and invite everybody in.”

She added: “We want to open up and have a women's group, a pop-up café and run some clinics – whether it's Citizens Advice coming in or somebody needs information on housing we can bring someone in.

“It's really just to meet the needs of the community.

“My background is in social work, community justice, criminal justice and domestic abuse so I would really like Community House to be a safe haven for people.”

Hopes are to build positive relationships and skills for people whilst reducing isolation in the community.

The schedule of activities has changed at Community House with the After School Club available from 3.30pm between Monday and Thursday.

The Mix youth group both available on Monday from 7pm and will open up to all Clacks young people while each Tuesday will see coffee mornings from 10am for women.

Speaking about the coffee mornings, Shelley-Anne added: “We put the world to right, just have a chat, there's home baking, tea and coffee and it's a chance for people who are maybe quite lonely to meet others and maybe foster some friendships – that's what we are all about.”

The Helping Hands Group for adults with additional needs is also available each Wednesday from 10.30am with carers welcome.

A lunch club with food from The Gate for free is provided as well each Thursday from 1.30pm.

Shelley-Anne is keen to put Community House Alloa on the map and is appealing for donations of Christmas gifts, which can be dropped off between Monday and Thursday, for children supported by the good cause.

For more information about activities, find Community House Alloa on Facebook or call 01259 725 424.