Love Notties: A Melody of Community and Compassion
In the words of the beloved musical film Moulin Rouge, “Love is a many splendored thing. Love lifts us up where we belong, and all you need is love.” At Love Notties, we believe that love is more than just a beautiful sentiment; it is a powerful action that transforms lives and communities. This spirit of love and action is the heart of our story.
The Beginning: Rising to the Challenge
Our journey began in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, during the harsh Level 5 Lockdown in 2020. As poverty, unemployment, and desperation gripped our community in Nottingham Road, a dedicated group of residents, including Sandra Berning, Jon Bates, Missy Hughes, and Julie Howe, alongside the Nottingham Road Landowners Association, sprang into action. Together, they launched a feeding program to support those hardest hit by the lockdown. At its peak, this initiative provided food for 3,500 people each month.
One of the many touching stories from this time is of an elderly woman who had adopted seven orphans. Each time she received a food parcel, she fell to her knees in gratitude, thanking Love Notties for keeping her family alive. It was stories like these that fueled our determination to continue and expand our efforts.
From Relief to Transformation
As the immediate crisis passed, the team at Love Notties realised that their mission had only just begun. Inspired by the successes of Love Howick and their extensive community projects, we transitioned from a feeding program into a fully-fledged non-profit organisation. Our goal: to create lasting, positive change in Nottingham Road.
Our Mission and Projects
Humanitarian Aid:
Our initial focus on feeding has evolved into broader humanitarian efforts. We support local schools and Early Childhood Development centres. In times of disaster, we coordinate relief efforts to support our community.
Environmental
Stewardship:
Love Notties is committed to environmental sustainability. Our recycling for tokens program promotes recycling and provides essential goods to those in need. We also oversee the maintenance and beautification of Nottingham Road.
Education and Skills Development:
Education is at the core of our vision for a better future. Through partnerships we offer adult skills development programs which help individuals gain critical life and job skills, empowering them to break the cycle of poverty and build better lives for themselves and their families.
A Community United
Love Notties is more than an organisation; it is a movement that unites the people of Nottingham Road. We encourage everyone to get involved, whether by volunteering time and skills, donating to our fund, or supporting our various initiatives. Our second-hand shop, supported by generous donations from residents, is a testament to the power of community spirit.
Looking Forward
Despite challenges, including the impact of the July 2021 riots, we remain steadfast in our commitment to mending and strengthening our community. We believe in the power of collaboration and the resilience of our people. As we move forward, we continue to seek innovative solutions to issues such as public amenities and basic skills development.
Join Us
There are many ways to partner with Love Notties:
- Volunteer your time and skills.
- Donate to support our programs.
- Participate in our recycling program.
- Spread the word on social media and through word of mouth.
- Support our fundraising initiatives.
Our Vision
To serve all residents of Nottingham Road, fostering a cohesive, safe, clean, and prosperous community for all. We aim to unite our community for positive change, as we believe we are better together.
Love Notties is a registered Non-Profit Company (NPC) born from the devastating effects of COVID-19 lockdown. Our commitment to humanitarian aid, environmental stewardship, and education drives our efforts to uplift and unite the Nottingham Road community. Join us in making a lasting impact.
Our Directors
Administrative Support:
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