International response to loneliness in Halesowen (From Halesowen News)

International response to loneliness in Halesowen

7:50am Wednesday 17th October 2012 in Local

AN international team has joined forces with a Halesowen church to provide a community drop in centre in Lapal.

Volunteers from English Language Community Outreach, part of Operation Mobilisation based in the town centre, have pledged support to St Peter’s Church in helping people overcome isolation and loneliness.

With support from Dudley Council, the kitchen has been refurbished to enable café to be run in the church hall providing hot drinks and light refreshments and a place for people to meet and talk.

Rev Mike Rutter said: “Our research has shown that isolation can be a big but hidden problem in places like Lapal.

“This project, with the support of ELCO, gives a practical solution. We have a safe, accessible building and a friendly team. It’s a great project meeting an important need.”

The team is made up of people from Russia, Brazil and Hong Kong and the cafe opens Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8am until noon at the church in Hiplands Road.

ELCO offers placements to foreign students who need to improve their English by working on voluntary projects for up to six months before undertaking missionary work.