ONE hundred people have signed up to a campaign to provide a meal a month to homeless people and those in need in Stroud.

A year ago, the Marah Trust, which provides free hot meals three days a week, set itself a target of finding 100 people to be regular donors.

The Marah team and its supporters gathered in St Laurence Church in Stroud this week to mark the occasion of that milestone figure being met, and to set a new one.

One of those who has backed the campaign is Stroud Town Mayor Kevin Cranston:

He said: "A year ago I came along to one of the Marah sessions at the scout hut and helped to launch the appeal to get one hundred donors giving a minimum of £3 a month.

"And it's really good news, we're at that target now, which is really brilliant."

He added: "I've always been impressed the quiet way Marah goes about its business and helps a lot of people, and makes a huge difference to many people's lives in an unassuming way."

The small Stroud-based charity provides hot meals two days a week at their drop-in at the scout hut in Chapel Street.

A lighter hot meal is served on Saturdays from Stroud Baptist Church Hall.

The team ensure people have something to eat, and sign post those in need to support.

“For just £3 a month, the donors can ensure that the Marah Trust provides one nutritional two-course hot meal to someone who may be living on the street or struggling to make ends meet,” said Michael Athienites, Marah’s drop-in manager.

"We're delighted to have reached the 100 mark and would like to thank everyone who has signed up as a regular donor.

“We are a small charity but depend solely on gifts, grants and fundraising by supporters.

"We have now set ourselves the new target of 200 monthly donors by the end of 2020.

"£3 pounds a month is a small amount but can make a huge difference to someone who is trying to get their life back on track.”

To donate visit the Marah Trust website:

marah.org.uk

.