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Charity launches paint appeal to transform homeless scheme

A Walsall charity is asking people for donations of unwanted pots of emulsion in a bid to give a homeless scheme that it runs for teenagers a new lick of paint.

Caldmore Housing Association is appealing for a range of different coloured paints as well as brushes, rollers and dust sheets to make over its Jervis Court scheme.

The Dog Kennel Lane building, which opened in 1993, provides accommodation and support to young people aged 16-25 who have been made homeless or are at risk of becoming homeless.

As well as providing safe and stable housing, Jervis Court also helps young people to get into employment, training and education and provides ongoing support for any issues that may be affecting them.

Young people will use the donations of paint to create colourful murals on the hallways of Jervis Court, which will be designed in partnership with a local artist over the next three weeks and then painted by young people and staff.

Staff hope that the artwork will create a warm and welcoming atmosphere for young people who move into the scheme, which supports around 40 people each year.

Stacey Pearce, a support worker at Jervis Court, said: “Lots of people have leftover paint gathering dust in their sheds and we’re asking them to dig it out and donate it to us.

“Not only will it help to make Jervis Court a more colourful place but it will also give the young people we work with a chance to learn new skills and build confidence and self esteem.”

John Miller, a 24-year-old resident at Jervis Court who will be helping to paint the murals, said: “I can’t wait for this activity to start. It will make us feel like we belong somewhere and make our homes look and feel brighter.”

To donate paint, brushes or other decorating equipment, call Stacey Pearce at Jervis Court on 01922 474 023 or email stacey.pearce@caldmorehousing.co.uk

Jervis Court is run by Caldmore Housing Association, a Walsall charity which aims to improve the quality of life for local people through affordable homes and support services.

For more information about Jervis Court, or to discuss applying for the service, call 01922 474 023.