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The Marah
Moving on Project
Helping those who want to be
drug and alcohol free…..
to become free and then to stay free.
More information..
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About Marah
Background
Marah was founded in August 2001 by a group of six concerned members of Stroud's John
Street Baptist Church. Their aim then, as now, was to help the growing numbers of
Stroud's men and women who are marginalised by society. This work has grown from an
initial client group of around twelve to one of well over a hundred; Marah now has a
team of more than forty volunteers with involvement and support coming from most of
Stroud's Churches. No apologies are made for Marah being a Christian organisation; on
the contrary, Marah is proud that Stroud's Churches are putting aside denominational
differences and working together to fill a very apparent gap in our community. It is
increasingly recognised that faith groups such as Marah can have a significant
positive impact in reducing drug related crime and combating anti social behaviour.
Marah Now -
Helping to Restore Dignity
Marah are open for three afternoon sessions
every week at Stroud Congregational Church Hall and are currently in negotiation to
open for further sessions. This will mean that Marah can work more effectively
alongside ex-offenders and all who are homeless, coping with addiction, suffering
with physical or mental health problems or have any other special needs. It is the
aim that all such people will be met in a non-judgmental way, where they are, in
order to help them through the many difficulties they face in today's world. The
drop-in centre is a place where ALL visitors / guests are made welcome - regardless
of race, gender, ethnic origin, religion, sexual orientation or physical / mental
capability.
Here, this vulnerable group of people can meet and talk amongst themselves, and with
Marah staff, in a relaxed, non threatening environment. Marah provides free of charge
a healthy hot meal and an opportunity to take part in a variety of leisure activities
such as art, craft, games and music. Assistance is given with form filling, making
and keeping appointments with courts, hospitals, GP's, drug agencies, rehabilitation
centres, health centres, social services etc. It is planned that Marah will offer
‘back to work’ training in such areas as computer skills, decorating, gardening and
catering.
All who visit
Marah are warmly welcomed by volunteer staff who have developed valued friendships
and supportive, trusting relationships with guests. When help and advice is needed
on the many problems and issues that guests face on a daily basis, Marah is there.
Working at 'street level', the team at Marah are ideally placed to recognise
difficulties as they arise, and to act before situations become out of control for
example, they are regularly instrumental in resolving housing issues that have in
many instances prevented housing evictions.
Looking to the Future
Marah are building strong working relationships with Stroud District Council's
Rehousing Team and with other local agencies and projects such as the Probation
Services, Gloucestershire Drug and Alcohol Services (GDAS) and The Door Youth
Project. Team and are working on establishing relationships with all drug related
projects in the area. Members attend regular constructive working groups such as the
Substance Action Group (SAG), Drug and Alcohol Supported Housing Group, which is also
aimed at supporting the same vulnerable group.
Marah is currently
working on a project to improve their facilities and provide a top quality Day Centre
for the Stroud area which will incorporate the Drop-in with a Structured Day
Programme, Relapse Prevention and an ongoing Reintegration Programme. The long term
vision is still to provide appropriate housing within the community enabling those
who desire it, a return to normal society life. One of the greatest and often most
heart breaking problems encountered is in the finding of accommodation for this
client group. Marah has seen a growing need for emergency bedding and temporary
housing, as well as supported permanent and semi permanent accommodation.
A new Board of
Trustees has been appointed to oversee the work of Marah, the Trustees will be
working together with the Management Committee to assist in the fundraising and to
help finalise the new business plans and strategies for Marah's future development.
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