A win-win-win for Raceview church during cost-of-living crisis
04 September 2023
The Raceview Repurpose Shed will double in space – and double its output – as it expands its capabilities to offer free, repurposed appliances, garden tools and furniture to those in need, after receiving support from Ipswich City Council.
The shed provides a space for retired men to meet, socially connect and use their skills and trades to fix goods that are then given to those in need.
The Raceview Congregational Fellowship, which runs the shed, recently received $13,508 in funding from council’s Community Projects Funding 2023-2024.
Pastor Billy Diehm said the shed was seeing an increase in demand as the cost-of-living crisis continued.
“There are a lot of people in need and this has meant we need to build a second workspace dedicated to just fixing and repairing furniture for donating to families in this crisis,” Mr Diehm said.
“This funding will help us enormously as the original shed will now be used to fix and restore metal goods such as whitegoods and mowers.”
Division 1 Councillor Sheila Ireland said council was proud to work with the church to help the community.
“The Raceview Repurpose Shed is a great example of a not-for-profit organisation doing so much for the community, providing a space for men to fix and repurpose valuable items, saving them from the landfill and helping those in need,” Cr Ireland said.
Division 1 Councillor Jacob Madsen encouraged community groups in need of funding to apply in the upcoming rounds.
“These funds are a great way for not-for-profits to make equipment purchases, facility upgrades or hold capacity building programs that has a wider community benefit,” Cr Madsen said.
“It’s a win-win-win situation for council, community groups and the wider community.”
For more details, visit Ipswich City Council’s Funding and Support website.