THEY’RE really cooking at Redditch charity Reach CIC after big-hearted Hughes Electrical donated a superb refurbished cooker to the Winyates-based organisation.
The store stepped in after Reach CIC manager Liz Williams popped in to its Alcester Street shop to buy some extra things for the popular cooking courses the charity runs.
“On the off-chance I asked if they did anything for the voluntary and community sector and the next thing the manager Dave Arkinstall arranged to come down to find out what we do and how we do it,” said Liz.
“It’s one thing to talk to someone who sends you a cheque – and cheques are always welcome – but it’s another to actually visit us and show an interest, which was fantastic.
“Dave talked to the powers that be and I was literally stunned when they offered us the cooker – it’s been fully refurbished but looks brand spanking new. It’s even got double ovens and a timer. It’s like we’ve entered the 21st Century.”
Reach CIC plays a key role in maintaining the community in Winyates and beyond and its cookery courses – teaching people how to prepare and cook nutritious meals on a budget and buying and using healthy ingredients to combat obesity – all help meet the borough council’s community priorities.
Liz acknowledges it’s a two-way process – Reach CIC have always recommended Hughes Electrical for its clients in need of white goods like cookers, fridges, freezers and TVs.
“We do recommend Hughes as it’s a place where people can get items at a normal price and with proper service,” she said.