A new initiative in East Belfast provides welcome packs to help newcomers settle in and feel at home in the community
Belfast: Dozens of welcome packs have been given to families moving to east Belfast. These packs include a cute model of the famous Harland and Wolff cranes and some Tayto crisps.
This initiative is run by the East Belfast Race Relations Network to help everyone feel at home. It’s part of a larger project funded by a £497,197 grant from The National Lottery Community Fund.
Katy Allen, who works with the East Belfast Community Development Agency, mentioned that the area is becoming more diverse. She emphasized the importance of making all residents feel welcome.
She pointed out that moving can be tough on mental health. So, they’ve been collaborating with the East Belfast Race Relations Network for over a year to create these welcome packs, which are delivered personally.
The packs are for anyone new to east Belfast, whether they’re from another part of the city or from abroad. It’s the little things that count, and that’s the idea behind this initiative.
Each pack includes a welcome letter, local support info, and handy tips like bin collection days and where to find the nearest community center, park, doctor, and shop.
Plus, they throw in some Tayto crisps and a Harland and Wolff crane ornament. It’s a personal touch that really shows newcomers they’re welcome, and it means a lot.
A young mother who recently moved to east Belfast shared how stressful moving can be. She was really thankful for the welcome pack, saying it made settling in much easier and helped her connect with family support groups.
Katy also highlighted how crucial the National Lottery Community Fund’s support has been. It not only helps with the welcome packs but also encourages local organizations to collaborate and share resources.
They’re always looking for ways to improve the packs and update the contents based on feedback. The welcome letter is even available in 13 languages and counting!
When someone delivers a big yellow box, it’s hard to miss, and it’s nice for recipients to meet a friendly face. Everyone who receives a pack finds it super helpful, and the response has been fantastic.
If you want to know more, you can reach out to the East Belfast Community Development Agency at 028 9045 1512 or email admin@ebcda.org.
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