Heart of Hackney project shortlisted for prestigious pride award » Housing » 24dash.com

The inspirational Heart of Hackney community development project has been shortlisted for a prestigious National Housing Federation What We Are Proud Of award.

The ongoing venture, by Sanctuary Hereward, part of Sanctuary Group, one of the countrys leading housing associations, aims to improve facilities for children and young people, promote healthy communities and create cleaner and sustainable neighbourhoods.

The award is part of the Neighbourhood Awards 2008, which celebrate the contribution of housing associations to local communities.

Since its launch in April 2007, Heart of Hackney schemes have included the creation of a community garden, youth theatre workshops, breakfast, homework and after-school clubs for children, positive parenting projects and sponsored nursery placements.

Stephanie Killer, Sanctuary Herewards regional director, said: This has been a groundbreaking venture, transforming the lives of many people in the local community.

To be shortlisted for the award is testament to the dedication and hard work of Sanctuary Hereward staff, project partners and most importantly, the people of Hackney.

Sanctuary has been invited to attend an awards ceremony on Wednesday, July 16 to talk about how the project has enhanced the community.

The London regional winner will be shortlisted for a national award, the overall winner of which will be announced at a ceremony hosted by LK Today presenter Lorraine Kelly on Thursday, September 18 at Birmingham ICC.

Sanctuary Hereward's Heart of Hackney partners include, The Magic Breakfast, the London Borough of Hackney, Preset, the Gascoyne and Morningside Youth Clubs, InShape, The Healing Tent, Immediate Theatre and ecoACTIVE.

Sanctuary Group invested £250,000 on the project last year and has pledged a further £170,000 for 2008, in addition to match funding and donations in kind from project partners and other sources.