£350,000 LOTTERY BOOST FOR ELM PARK CHARITY THAT HAS BEEN A LIFELINE FOR THOUSANDS.

15th October 202615th October 2026 Francesca Lilleystone 0 Comments Elm Park, Funding, HASWA, Health and Wellbeing, Lottery min read

An incredible Elm Park charity that has spent years supporting local people, helping those facing hardship and bringing communities together has been awarded more than £350,000 in National Lottery funding, giving a major boost to its work supporting people across Havering.

The Havering Asian Social and Welfare Association (HASWA) is much more than a community centre. For countless local people, it is a place to find friendship, support, advice, a warm welcome and, when times are difficult, a helping hand.

Based at Greenfields in Elm Park, HASWA has worked tirelessly for years to make a difference to people’s lives. Led by a dedicated team including Manjit and secretary Mr Narwal, the charity has become a valued part of the local community.

Its work reaches far beyond any one community. HASWA welcomes people of all backgrounds, faiths and beliefs, offering activities and support designed to help people feel included, connected and valued.

From wellbeing classes and social activities to lunch clubs, outreach programmes and mental health support, the team works to tackle loneliness, isolation and disadvantage while helping people maintain their independence and wellbeing.

The centre provides a place where people can meet others, build friendships and take part in activities that support both physical and emotional health.

For someone who may be feeling isolated, struggling with their wellbeing or simply needing company, having somewhere welcoming to go can make an enormous difference.

HASWA also regularly distributes free food to members of the community, helping people facing financial pressures and ensuring that practical support is available when it is needed.

Last year, the charity reportedly welcomed almost 10,000 visits from people seeking support. That figure gives an indication of just how important the centre has become to the people who use its services.

Now, the award of more than £350,000 in National Lottery funding is a significant boost for the organisation and the work it does.

The funding will help HASWA continue supporting the community, maintain its programmes and carry on providing practical help, including its regular free food distribution.

For the people who rely on the charity, that support can mean far more than a class, a lunch or a food parcel. It can mean having somewhere to turn, someone to talk to and the reassurance that they are not facing life’s difficulties alone.

HASWA’s story is also one of the power of community spirit. Its team has continued to work hard to bring people together, promote healthier lifestyles and support those who may otherwise feel forgotten or isolated.

The charity’s activities help people from different backgrounds meet, share experiences and build relationships, showing what can be achieved when a community has a place where everyone is welcome.

The new funding will help the team continue that work, reaching people who need support and keeping the doors open to those who benefit from its services.

For Manjit, Mr Narwal and the wider HASWA team, this is recognition of the importance of the work they do and a welcome opportunity to continue making a difference across Havering.

At a time when many households are feeling the pressure of rising living costs and some people are struggling with loneliness or isolation, the work of local charities such as HASWA is more important than ever.

The award is not just good news for the organisation. It is good news for the many people across Havering who turn to HASWA for help, friendship, advice and support.

The Havering Daily congratulates everyone at HASWA on this fantastic achievement and thanks the team for the dedication and kindness they continue to show to our community.

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