Grant Spotlight: Green Ways

Reading Community Energy Society has awarded a grant of £500 to support the ongoing work of local community group, Green Ways.

Green Ways promotes sustainable living by facilitating strong communities where resources are shared and reused rather than thrown away. 

The group runs regular activities at their hub in Southview Park, Caversham including a Waste Not Free Shop and a Women’s Sew and Chat group, and supports over 1400 people every year.

Green Ways creates opportunities for connection and support through their volunteer network and weekly sessions.

The Free Shop is open to everyone and provides a complementary alternative to other reuse networks providing items such as saucepans, books, wellies, coffee tables and clothing. Schools, homeless charities and other groups also make use of the donated resources including designated shop sessions for Reading University freshers. 

Green Ways Trustee, Sarah Snow, said:

“So much is thrown into landfill that could be reused within our communities. Our hub provides much needed items and brings people into closer contact with their community.”

The group also helps people to set up new homes in the area including those leaving abusive relationships and refugees. Green Ways receives referrals from the Council, the voluntary sector and the Job Centre as well as welcoming members of the general public.  

Reading Community Energy Society grants are used to support local sustainability initiatives throughout Reading, and funding ranges from £100 – £1000. Please see the links on our Grants page for more information.