Rotherham Families First Launches ‘DIY SOS’ Appeal to Renovate Its Parkgate Unit
A small volunteer-run charity based in Rotherham has launched an urgent appeal to transform its unit into a safe, functional, and welcoming space for the community.
Rotherham Families First has been generously gifted a five-year lease by Parkgate Shopping, but without basic facilities – including a toilet, running water, adequate lighting, and enough storage – the charity faces the heart-breaking prospect of having to relocate.
“We’re so grateful to have been given a home here,” said Ann Levick, founder of Rotherham Families First. “But right now, our space simply isn’t fit for purpose. We have no running water, no proper lighting, and nowhere to wash our hands or make a cup of tea. We’re determined to make it work, but we can’t do it alone.”
The charity, which has no paid staff or income stream, relies entirely on volunteers and donations to carry out its work supporting local families in crisis. They redistribute new and second-hand clothing, homewares, toys and baby items to hundreds of families in Rotherham each year.
Rotherham-based Edge Waste Management has already stepped forward, offering labour to help move stock and reconfigure storage. But more help is urgently needed.
The charity’s DIY SOS appeal is calling on local businesses, tradespeople, and members of the community to donate materials, equipment, labour, or funds to help renovate the unit.
The goal is to install essential facilities and create a welcoming, safe environment where volunteers and visitors can continue to make a difference.
“It’s amazing what we can achieve when the community comes together,” added Ann. “Since forming in 2017, we’ve continued to be blown away by the support people in Rotherham give. We’ve built a community but now we need to build our space.”
How You Can Help
- Donate materials, equipment, or funds
- Volunteer your skills (plumbing, electrics, carpentry, decorating, etc.)
- Share the appeal to help reach local businesses and trades
To get involved or offer support, please contact us.