A fundraising concert in aid of the island’s homeless charity Graih will take place later this week.
The concert, a night of acoustic blues by Blue John and Papa Cass, is set for Saturday, June 18 at Broadway Baptist Church, Broadway, Douglas, starting at 8pm.
Tickets, priced ?5, are available from Graih, based at the Alpha Centre in Broadway, or by emailing John at bluejohnmedia@hotmail.co.uk or by ringing him on 204320.
Blue John and Papa Cass consists of John Gregory on guitar and vocals and Tim Cass on harmonica and vocals.
John, who has sold out concerts at Peel Centenary Centre’s Atholl Room and the Erin Arts Centre in Port Erin, recently played at the world famous Bitter End club in Greenwich Village, New York City, as part of an open mic.
He is looking forward to the concert on Saturday when every penny will go towards the homeless charity.
John said: “I was delighted to be asked to perform a concert in aid of Graih. It will be a novel experience for me as I have never performed the blues in a church before!
“Graih provides a number of invaluable services to the community and I am very happy to support this wonderful charity.”
Graih runs its’ drop-in out of the Alpha Centre. It provides hot food, a shower, clothing if needed and a place to sit and chat round the dinner table. For those otherwise sleeping rough it provides a sofa to sleep on overnight.
The charity said reasons that people find themselves homeless are extremely varied. Substance abuse, mental health, addictions, relationship breakdowns and family catastrophes can all play a part. The charity tries to help people in whatever way they need help. Finding accommodation, getting help with substance abuse or health issues, getting support in accommodation or simply sitting down and having a chat are all things that it offers.
The majority of Graih’s volunteers spend their time at the drop-in. There are visits from Community Nurses and strong links with other agencies such as the Stauros Foundation - a Chrisitian group helping people who struggle with addiction.
The charity says the drop-in is as unconditional and relaxed as it can make it. People can come in off the street and get looked after if they are in need. Alcohol and medication is handed in to be returned when people leave. As long as people are peaceful the charity is happy to have them through the door.
The charity also provides activities in the community as well as community visits.
For more information visit www.graih.org.im.
Photo - left to right, Tim 'Papa' Cass and 'Blue' John Gregory.
