Paula Massey needs storage space and cash to continue helping vulnerable people in South Wales
A CARDIFF army veteran’s community interest company has become so successful she’s had to refuse donations because of a lack of storage space.
Donations to Paula Massey’s cause include mobility aids, clothes, food and furniture, which are given to veterans, the homeless and vulnerable families.
The Thornhill resident, 58, said: “I hate it but I’ve had to start turning down donations because of storage issues.
“I have three people currently wanting to donate to me.”
Ms Massey has become a well-known face in Llanishen. She attributes the success of Upcycling and Mobility Training to the generous people of North Cardiff.
“Wherever I go people give,” said Ms Massey.
“One lady stopped me in B&M and said ‘Are you Paula? Here’s £20 for your charity’.”
Ms Massey’s work has attracted praise from Westminster. Last March she won a Point of Light award from Boris Johnson for work in her community over several years.
Anna McMorrin, MP for Cardiff North, also praised Ms Massey’s work.
Speaking at a fundraising event organised by Ms Massey, Mrs McMorrin said: “What Paula has done is give people hope, give people drive and make sure that people come together.
“I pay tribute to Paula’s hard-work and determination to reduce waste whilst providing lifelines to families in the local area.
“Charities like UMT do invaluable work in our communities and as Paula’s MP, I will continue to support her in every way I can.”
She was speaking at the unveiling of a remembrance garden at Llanishen RFC, built by local primary schools.
The event raised £550 for Ms Massey’s charity and saw several pieces of mobility equipment donated.
Ms Massey’s community interest company is highly personal. Donors are often told by Ms Massey where their gift has gone, like one woman whose doll was repurposed for an elderly woman in hospital with Alzheimer’s.
Furniture donations often help veterans re-enter civilian life. Karl Gilmore, trustee of the veteran’s charity Buchanan Trust, said: “Paula came to our rescue by using her exceptionally generous network of supporters.”
The Buchanan Trust helps veterans re-enter society. They have just built four veteran almshouse cottages.
“Building a house is one thing, but making it feel like a home is an art form,” said Mr Gilmore.
UMT is being rebranded to Guardians for Heroes next year. It will still be a non-profit community interest company, meaning it exists to benefit the community and not shareholders.
The best ways to help Ms Massey are by giving her storage space and cash donations.
- If you want to help Ms Massey contact her here.
