News / People's Republic of Stokes Croft
Community enterprise launches crowdfunder at ‘perilous’ time
Another organisation in Bristol has launched a crowdfunder to secure its survival in a “particularly perilous time” for the organisation.
Community enterprise, the People’s Republic of Stokes Croft, is based on Jamaica Street and has provided public services to people facing homelessness, and runs workshops, exhibitions and talks since 2006.
The organisation used to be entirely self-funded, but has relied more on public funding since the pandemic and cost of living crisis, which has made it harder to balance the books.
is needed now More than ever
In an online crowdfunder on Fund Surfer, the charity said it needs to secure its future during a seasonal “lull”.
“As our primary income comes in the form of Stokes Croft China and art sales, and people hiring our event space, the summer is by far our leanest time of year.
“On top of that, the many challenges and uncertainties of the cost of living crisis and skyrocketing bills, not to mention the long pandemic hangover, have made it a particularly perilous time.
“We need your support to get over this seasonal lull and make it through to the festive season, when things always pick up again.
“Help us to keep defending public spaces, promoting cultural freedoms, supporting our communities, and providing alternative voices from the city,” they added.
Like a number of small businesses in Bristol, the PRSC recently had its discretionary relief rate removed by Bristol City Council.
The relief provided nonprofits and community interest companies in Bristol with a ‘discount’ on business rates.
The PRSC has been instrumental to the homeless community in Bristol, as well as grassroots creatives that use the space.
Volunteers at PRSC distribute tents, sleeping bags and warm clothes from its Blanket Store, and people experiencing homelessness can collect Dope magazines from PRSC to support themselves.
The PRSC also provides 24 hour access to running water and electricity for charging phones and devices, on the corner of Jamaica and Hillgrove Streets.
The petition has so far raised £1,200 of is £2,000 goal.
Main photo: PRSC/OggaDoon
Read next:
- Shop owner launches petition to save Bristol’s independents
- Bristol arts organisation to close due to ‘funding cuts’
- Bristol’s creatives demand end to damaging arts funding delay
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