Via Wings lands £10k grant for ‘vital’ services

Dromore charity Via Wings has landed a £10,000 Big Lottery Fund grant towards its counselling work.

For six years the charity has publicly dedicated itself to helping people of all ages, gender and religion in Dromore and has now set its sights further afield.

Via Wings offers one-on-one counselling sessions on a weekly basis, followed up with a befriending scheme, aimed at helping people to gain confidence to attend social events such as fundraisers and various social groups held within the community and organised by the charity.

The grant will help the charity offer 400 counselling sessions to support vulnerable adults suffering from financial or relationship pressures, addiction or mental health issues.

Gail Redmond, charity founder said: “I am delighted that we have received this funding boost from the Big Lottery Fund, which recognises the work we are doing in this community and the ongoing need for these vital services.”

One person, who did not wish to be named, praised the work of Via Wings, it having helped them when they were “at their lowest”.

They said: “The counselling service provided by Via Wings has helped me to get back into my community.

“It has helped me personally, helped my family life be happier and allowed me to meet people who have become lifelong friends.

“Via Wings is a family who I am indebted to and the extra support I have received from them will never leave me. Without Via Wings I’m not sure I would be here.”

Counsellor, Louise McCarter said: “This is a great opportunity for Via Wings to be able to support our local community. Everybody struggles at times, trying to cope with everyday stress; however when things feel too much, and maybe someone feels they are struggling to cope, we can now offer that vital one-to-one support.

“The worst feeling in the world is believing you are alone...this funding means we can help.”

If you would like to hear more about Via Wings and its work, contact the charity on 028 9269 8378 or call in and speak to one of its volunteers about ways you can get involved. Coming up - Father Christmas will be coming to Via Wings House of Hope (145 Banbridge Road, Dromore) on Friday 4, Saturday 5, Friday 11 and Saturday 12 December.

Different time slots are available.

Cost is £7 per ticket (including present and snack). Adults go free.

It s is a ticket-only event and tickets are available in Hope & Soul, (33 Market Square, Dromore).

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