One of Newham’s leading charities, the Renewal Programme, had a golden night on 22 October when they took over Old Stratford Town Hall to celebrate their 50th anniversary.

Since it was set up in 1971, the charity has inspired efforts to support marginalised people and to empower communities to sustain themselves independently in the future.

“This aim remains at the heart of the Renewal Programme’s vision A golden night for Renewal Programme and will take us forward through the next half century,” said Peter Laing, Chief Executive Officer.

The anniversary celebrations saw the launch of their strategic plan and the showing of their short film, ‘Dear Newham’ – an open letter to the Borough, produced by Neck of the Woods Films, which highlighted their achievements as well as some of the challenges they have overcome.

Some 200 Newham faces turned up to celebrate their milestone. Hosted by Trevor Blackman, the event also saw entertainment from Stephen Dappah, Sammie-Jo, Drum Works and Seby Ntege, as well as DJ’ing from Daniele from local Maryland joint, Kotch Pizza.

Food and drink were supplied by Traditions Catering. Local photographer, Sylvie Belbouab, who works with Newham Voices, also doubles as a volunteer for the charity, was also on hand to capture the event on camera.

The Renewal Programme recently launched their 50th Appeal, with all donations raised going direct to the charity to enable them to continue providing housing, food, education, advocacy and support and immigration advice to residents of the Borough. If you would like to donate, you can do so here.

www.renewalprogramme.org.uk

digital@renewalprogramme.org.uk

@therenewalprogramme

No news is bad news

Independent news outlets like ours – reporting for the community without rich backers – are under threat of closure, turning British towns into news deserts.

The audiences they serve know less, understand less, and can do less.

If our coverage has helped you understand our community a little bit better, please consider supporting us with a monthly, yearly or one-off donation.

Choose the news. Don’t lose the news.

Monthly direct debit

Annual direct debit

£5 per month supporters get a digital copy of each month’s paper before anyone else, £10 per month supporters get a digital copy of each month’s paper before anyone else and a print copy posted to them each month. £50 annual supporters get a digital copy of each month's paper before anyone else.