Not for Profit

Weymouth charity reaches milestone with over 1,000 local families supported

By Sam Pither [email protected]

Published: August 11, 2024 | Updated: 11th August 2024

Family Matters, a charity operating from rent-free premises provided by DJ Property on the Granby Trading Estate, has recently marked a significant achievement—supporting over 1,000 local families in need.

Since its foundation, the Weymouth-based charity has assisted 1,021 families, highlighting its vital role within the community. The charity provides essential items, including children’s clothes, school uniforms, toys, bedding, toiletries, and larger equipment, to families with young children.

Family Matters’ journey began humbly in a garage in 2020 and has since grown considerably, driven solely by a dedicated team of volunteers.

Mickey Jones, Chief Executive at DJ Property, expressed his support for the charity’s work: “It’s a privilege to support both Weymouth Foodbank and Family Matters with rent-free premises on the Granby Trading Estate. These community projects work closely together to help local parents with food and essential items such as clothes, cots, prams, highchairs, and toys. It’s great to see families recycling their outgrown items and volunteers helping others, but more is needed, and donations are always welcome.”

The demand for Family Matters’ services in Weymouth and the surrounding areas continues to grow, with 588 families receiving support so far this year alone. In July, the charity assisted 97 families.

Admin Volunteer Elaine Bateson Brown noted the growing need for their services: “Family Matters is very much needed in Weymouth and Portland. The charity has grown due to the rising number of families requiring assistance. We are grateful for the local donors’ generosity and the close-knit team of volunteers who support each other, as well as our families.”

Helen Rewse, another Admin Volunteer, shared her experience of the charity’s expansion: “Seeing the charity grow from a few boxes in a garage to our current space has been incredible. Thanks to local support, we are able to offer a wide range of equipment, toys, and clothes to families who need our support. They can come along and we help them to select what they need.”

Wendy Petitdemange, a recent addition to the Family Matters team, described her time at the charity as deeply fulfilling: “Volunteering at Family Matters has been a rewarding experience. The generosity of donations, the gratitude of the lovely families we help, and the wonderful team of volunteers, make it a great place to be on a Tuesday!”

Family Matters continues to welcome donations and volunteers. Those interested can connect with the charity on Facebook or email [email protected]. Every contribution, big or small, makes a significant difference in the lives of local families.

For more information about DJ Property and their community initiatives, visit DJProperty.com.

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