Introducing Anna Rowlands, Manager of Canolfan Maerdy in Tairgwaith. In her own words, find out what Anna loves about managing this centre and why she loves Neath Port Talbot.
“What I love about Canolfan Maerdy is that there are so many things going on that the whole community can get involved with. We have Lots of Tots for the little ones, food boxes that we distribute to the local community, community transport that we organise, a youth club, our vegetable growing project, and so much more.
“The food boxes are a real staple of what we provide here, and we deliver about 35-45 boxes per week. We put a lot of thought into what we add to the boxes to ensure that recipients have the ingredients they need to prepare meals. Examples of what we include are baking ingredients, fruits, jars, fresh bread, canned goods, and much more.
“It’s such a joy to be so connected to the community and embedded in our culture. My favourite part of my job is meeting local people and working with them to find out what’s needed before ultimately delivering a solution that benefits everyone.
“Here at Canolfan Maerdy, it sounds cliché but we are like one big family, and this is something we want to impart on the community – that we’re there for them as well.
“I’m a Neath Port Talbot local, and it’s such a lovely place to live. The community is so welcoming, especially to newcomers who move to the area, and I strongly believe that you won’t be able to find this community spirit anywhere else.”