The FULFIL communities are a new initiative that aim to provide a community space for people who are experiencing food poverty and isolation on the Isle of Man. The FULFIL communities have been shaped by our ‘Butties and Banter’ community in Port Erin, which has helped to transform the lives of those who attend.
The FULFIL communities hope to offer:
- F – Faith: A safe space to explore faith
- U – United: Grow relationships and empower/equip those
who attend to have an active role in the community
- L – Listening Ear: One-to one support from volunteers
- F – Food: A weekly drop-in session with food and refreshments
- I – Inclusive: Unconditional welcome to all
- L – Love in Action: Showing God’s unconditional love to all
The project team is passionate about providing a warm and welcoming environment where people can feel valued and supported. They believe that everyone has something to offer, and they are committed to helping people to connect with each other and with their community. We also hope to provide support through collaboration with other services and to create a safe space for people to explore their faith.
Through the ‘Butties and Banter’ community we have already seen the positive impact that these safe spaces can have in people’s lives. We have seen people who have been struggling with isolation and mental health blossom within these environments.
Feeling able to form relationships with others in the community and support each other beyond the weekly sessions. Some of our community members have also been able to secure either voluntary or paid employment through the support of those involved. Community members feel more confident to ask searching questions and to explore their faith.
The project will be funded by donations, grants and national (Connexional) Methodist funding. The project team are looking for volunteers to help with the various activities and services that will be offered. If you are interested in getting involved, please contact the project team.
The FULFIL communities are a great example of how churches can be at the forefront of providing support to people who might be experiencing food poverty and isolation.
We hope these communities will make a positive difference in the lives of many people. We hope that as we plant future FULFIL communities across the island that they too will be a success, and that it will inspire other churches to start similar initiatives.