The Gap Project...

All Inclusive & Welcoming

The GAP Project is an all-inclusive and welcoming church-based community project for groups, activities and individual support for people in poverty and deprivation. They are based within the Thanet area, which is placed within England's top 10% of most deprived authorities.

More than 1,000 people come through the doors each week and the project is supported by 120 volunteers who manage the Café and a large variety of groups and activities. The main aim of the project is to provide a safe place for people to access the support and resources they need to build their self esteem, make informed decisions and improve their quality of life.

It is a safety net for people to access in times of need - with access to advice, support, friendship and a hot meal in times of crisis. The project enables people to reach their potential, whether it be within education, relationships or employment.

CFCT funding provided salaries for three key workers, all of whom have been central to the charity enabling them to expand their youth groups and develop a mentoring programme that enables young people to develop trust and share any issues they may have.

The project's plan now is to grow their social enterprise and sustainability, allowing them to be less reliant on grant funding. Their café is now open 6 days a week and their charity shop ‘Gap in the Market' is starting to make its mark and turn a profit.

GAP also plan to develop their programmes in four areas: their provision for the elderly, their work with the under 5's and families, their work with young people and also those with mental health issues. GAP have been central to the opening of the Thanet Winter Shelter and have also started a new volunteering project with the homeless - encouraging homeless individuals to volunteer.

The GAP project is a safety net and stepping stone for those in the local community and their impact is immeasurable.