Tom Arthur, MSP for Renfrewshire South visited Active Communities’ latest project Station Seven last week and met with Susan McDonald to see the facility, housed in the former Police Station at Quarry Street, Johnstone and hear how their plans are shaping up.
Originally set-up as a charitable organisation to support physical activity and healthy eating, Active Communities now have an offering for almost everyone. From walking and jogging groups, to youth drop-ins and even clubbercise classes, the organisation has covered all bases. Their newest venture at Station Seven, which is several years in the making, will build on all the activities and services currently available and add many, many more.
Active Communities have also recently joined the Scottish Pantry Network and now have a pantry onsite that aims to reduce food waste, tackle food poverty and crucially tackle the stigma around using foodbanks.
Commenting after the visit, Tom Arthur said: “I am a long-time supporter of Active Communities and have visited them on many occasions since 2016. Susan and the team are passionate and dedicated about improving the lives of others and engaging with communities that are often isolated within society.
“It was great to see the progress that has been made at Station Seven. This Community Hub embodies the best of Active Communities as an organisation and will be an invaluable asset to the Community, other support providers and public/third sector organisations from the local area and beyond.
“To have a facility like this on our doorsteps will be fantastic and it is great that the Scottish Government, Renfrewshire Council and other funders could play their part in turning Active Communities’ ambitions into reality. A huge well done to Susan and the whole team.”
Active Communities CEO, Susan McDonald added: “It was great to show Tom around the building today and share our plans for the future. It is great to see all the hard work by our local volunteers and members coming to fruition. Station Seven will be vibrant, fun, friendly and welcoming community space for the whole community. We are also recruiting volunteers for Station Seven, to find out more please get in touch by email to info@activecommunities.co.uk
We are very excited to also have a team of staff and volunteers taking part in The Kiltwalk on April 24th to raise vital funds for the running costs of Station Seven. Donations are most welcome, and anyone wishing to do so can contribute at https://glasgow.thekiltwalk.co.uk/fundraising/GlasgowKiltwalk2022-SusanMcDonald”