Financial problems cause closure of Christian Centre in Catshill

AN ORGANISATION which has helped thousands of Bromsgrove people, since its launch almost a quarter of a decade ago, will close its doors on Friday (November 30).

The Golden Cross Christian Centre, which ran a care and charity shop in Golden Cross Lane, Catshill, has been forced to shut because it is no longer financially viable to keep it open.

It was set up in 1989 to help residents by acquiring goods to pass onto those in greater need. Back then it was run from a garage and, after that a portable cabin.

Then in 1993, the organisation moved into Golden Cross Lane, where it ran a care and charity shop, using the cash raised from sales of donated items to fund itself and help others.

Two years later, the building's landlord updated the premises, tailoring it to the Christian Centre's needs.

And it was in 1995 when it came under the umbrella of the Birmingham City Mission.

Up until its closure today, the service had around 16 volunteers who would give up their time to help those less fortunate.

Jean Mayo, the Golden Cross Christian Centre's secretary, said: "It has been a privilege to help so many people over the years.

"We know how grateful all those people have been for the support we have given.

"A lot of people will probably not realise how important the service is until it is not there anymore."

Although it officially closes its doors today (Friday), a final service of thanksgiving will be held at the centre at 11am tomorrow (Saturday).

"It would be nice to see those who have been helped by the centre in the past and former volunteers at this last get-together," added Joan.

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