Christina, from Leigh (but originally from Eccles), volunteers with Mustard Tree.
I train up new people who come onto the Freedom Project. Help with food and clothing rotation on Food Club and the Community Shop, do date checking and till training and have been volunteering since August 2021.
I got involved because my friend had a voucher to use for furniture so came in with them. I had a chat with Alison - one of the support team - as my mental health wasn’t the best. She told me to come in for an open day.
I originally joined the Freedom Project but stayed on as a Friend of volunteer after graduating. I thought why not? I enjoyed being here on the Freedom Project. Volunteering has helped build my confidence up - and improved my mental health. I've met people from all ages and cultures and it’s giving something back to the community.
Truthfully, I’ve met a lot of older people. I hadn't grown up with any Grandparents so I enjoy helping them carry their basket. Some people don't come in to shop - they just want to come in and say hello. I got to thinking one day we’re going to be that age – I'd like to think someone will help me in the same way.
Volunteering has helped a lot with my mental health - Alison said I seem more confident. I hadn’t dealt with my own problems until lockdown, when I was quite depressed and had some family members pass away. Volunteering keeps me busy. I enjoy seeing the people and the staff. You know you’re doing some good – if it wasn’t for the volunteers, Food Club wouldn’t run.
If you’re thinking about volunteering, I’d say ‘come and do it' – definitely. If in doubt, give it a week. If someone is there for a week, you know they’re coming back for a second and a third – then they won’t want to leave!
My favourite volunteering memory is the hugs – when people come in. People must need them because I get a lot! We all have boundaries but if someone wants to give me a hug – of course! I am a huggy person!
What song best sums up your volunteering experience:
‘At This Point in my Life’ by Tracy Chapman – you need to listen to the words. Anyone from Eccles knows that I’m a Tracy Chapman fan! Even my Irish grandkids…
