Further Community Chest Grant funding has been distributed to support the set up and running costs of Warm Spaces across the district.
Cambridgeshire Libraries have been awarded £400 and will support all Huntingdonshire Libraries, including Huntingdon, Yaxley, Sawtry, St Ives, Ramsey, Warboys, St Neots and Buckden. The funding will be used to provide a start up supply of refreshments across each library. Alongside this, they will purchase supplies so residents can take part in activities whilst visiting the Warm Spaces.
Somersham Parish Council has been awarded £250 to help cover gas and electric costs throughout the colder months at the Victory Hall. The Warm Space will be open on Wednesdays from 9.30am to 2.30pm and will have football tables, pool, board games and magazines on offer.
Head of Cambridgeshire Libraries, Gary Porter, said: "We are fully committed to helping everyone who is struggling as a result of rising living costs and are making people aware that they will always receive a warm welcome at their local library over the winter months.
"It’s fantastic news that additional funding has been secured to help with this support and a great example of working together with our partners to help residents. The funds will enable libraries in Huntingdonshire to set up board games sessions in our Warm Spaces and extend the provision of hot drinks throughout the week.
"Our libraries will be open throughout winter and everyone is welcome to drop in to keep warm, borrow a book, find information and much more. For further information on our libraries and the services on offer visit Cambridgeshire County Council's website."
Chair of Trustees for Somersham Victory Hall, Lesley Minter, said: "The money will help to provide a warm and social space when other warm venues in the village are closed.
"Residents who use it will not only save money on their own heating, but they will be able to socialise and make new friends.
"The Parish Council is providing free drinks and snacks and and our kind volunteer makes everyone welcome.
"The Warm Space is open one morning each week but this grant will enable us to open on more mornings if needed."
Executive Councillor for Community and Health, Cllr Ben Pitt, said: "It is heartening to see that over 40 organisations have opened their doors to support the Warm Spaces network across Huntingdonshire, providing safe, warm spaces for residents to visit.
"The Community Chest Grant enables these organisations to expand their offer and encourage more residents to attend their space.
"With the colder months well under way, people are sadly being forced to make tough decisions about heating their homes. Residents will receive a Warm Welcome at all locations listed on the District Council website."
Find out more information on the Warm Spaces in Huntingdonshire.
