Asda Foundation helps Antrim Ladies Shed rebuild after devastating fire
A much-loved women’s community group in Antrim has received vital support from the Asda Foundation after a fire spread from a neighbouring property, leaving the premises unsafe for use.
The Shed, established six years ago to help combat loneliness and isolation among local women in Antrim, has been awarded a £1,500 emergency grant from the Asda Foundation, alongside £150 worth of essential supplies to help members start the process of rebuilding.
Asda Antrim Community Champion, Ashley Ritchie, immediately reached out to the Asda Foundation’s emergency funding programme when she learned of the fire.
She said: “When I got the phone call, I could hear how devastated the ladies were. I know the Shed really well and spend a lot of time with the group, so I understand just how much it means to its members and the wider community. I knew we needed to help in whatever way we could.
“The Asda Foundation was absolutely amazing and provided £150 so we could gather essential items the group needed straight away. The ladies were delighted with the emergency shop, so when we surprised them with an additional £1,500 grant cheque, they were completely overwhelmed.
“This funding will go such a long way towards helping an incredible organisation that does so much for the wider community. I’m absolutely delighted we were able to support them at such a difficult time.”
Similar to a Men’s Shed, but created specifically for women, Antrim Ladies Shed provides a welcoming and supportive space for women aged 18 and over to meet, socialise, learn new skills and support one another. Its members play an active role in the community by knitting and crocheting blankets for local hospitals, care homes and baby banks, as well as creating specialised items for people with medical needs, including items for stoma care.
The group also provides a safe environment for women who may have experienced domestic abuse, while continuing to give back to other vulnerable people and community organisations across the area.
While the fire has left the group without a home, members are already working to secure a temporary location so activities can continue. The £1,500 will help replace essential equipment and resources, ensuring members can continue benefitting from the support and connections the team provides.
Roisin McGarry from Antrim Ladies Shed said: “Having lost our premises and all our belongings, the funding and essentials from Asda means we can begin to rebuild our shed. We’re eager to continue the work we do for our members and the wider community, and we are eternally grateful to Ashley for her help in organising the emergency funding for us.”
Through its community grant programmes, the Asda Foundation supports local organisations facing unexpected challenges, helping them continue their valuable work at the heart of communities across the UK.