Joel James MS rounded off a busy week by visiting the old Corona pop factory in Porth on Friday (31st March), now home to Valleys Kids.
Valleys Kids is a community development organisation that aims to transform the lives of individuals and communities the length and breadth of the Rhondda Valleys. The charity has multiple centres throughout the valley including Penygraig, Porth, Rhydyfelin, Penyrenglyn and Dinas, ensuring no children are left behind or without support.
On his visit, Joel met with Lynne Thomas – Director of Business and Finance, as well as their newest Director- Gary. During their meeting, Joel had extensive discussions with Lynne and Gary about the charity, their locations, their impact across the region, future ambitions and areas for growth. Lynne and Gary informed Joel about how the charity managed during COVID-19 and how they are now thriving.
From his in-depth conversations, Joel learnt how Valleys Kids are currently supporting over 3,000 families each week. Whether that is through their regular food parcels, art and drama classes, playgroups or social inclusion and enterprise events, the charity is touching the lives of thousands daily.
Speaking after the visit, Joel said:
“I have to admit I am blown away by the work that Valleys Kids are doing for children and families in RCT. From the small amount of time I have spent here today, I get a strong sense of Valleys Kids being more than a charity to the local community, everyone here is working tirelessly to create their own family.
It was great to tour the facility and see how the old Corona pop factory is being used today. Valleys Kids have transformed this space and every room provides benefits to individuals. I particularly enjoyed visiting the art in the Attic and seeing the beauty of RCT.
The charity is a tremendous asset to the people of the Rhondda and I am committed to helping them any way I can going forward”.
