At Connect: Pembrokeshire, we are proud to highlight the incredible work of the Megans Starr Foundation, a charity dedicated to supporting young people facing mental health challenges. Established in 2017, the foundation has grown into a vital resource for the community, providing essential support and services to those in need.

About the Megans Starr Foundation

The Megans Starr Foundation was born out of a profound personal tragedy. After losing Megan, her family found themselves navigating an unimaginable grief. From this devastating loss, they committed to helping other families avoid the same heartache by raising awareness about the dangers of mental health issues and providing crucial support.

Nicola Harteveld, Megans's mum and founder of the foundation, shares: “When we lost Megans, our world was shattered. We were alone, with nobody to help us. We united as a family and got through it as best we could. Our mission became clear: to prevent other parents from standing where we stood. We wanted to help them before it was too late.”

Achievements and Impact

In its seven years, the Megans Starr Foundation has made a significant impact:

• Funded over 1,120 hours of both peer and professional support for young people in the last two years.
• Provided 30 hours of support and 520 volunteer hours in the past four weeks alone.
• Collaborated with three organisations to extend their reach and effectiveness in the past 4 weeks.

Their services are in higher demand than ever, proving the critical need for their work. By offering both immediate support and preventative measures, the foundation has saved lives and continues to make a difference in the community.

Key Projects and Initiatives

1. Community Coffee House

The Megans Starr Community Coffee House is a cornerstone of their efforts, providing a welcoming and inclusive space for young people. Key features include:

• Safe Space: A comfortable environment for socialising and finding respite.
• Volunteering: A hub for local volunteer opportunities, helping young people build their resumes.
• Mental Health Support: Access to trained therapists for immediate mental health support.
• Creative Activities: Regular arts and crafts activities to encourage creative expression.
• Recreation and Nutrition: Evenings with games, hot meals, and beverages to ensure nourishment and recreational activities.

Located at 91B Charles Street, Milford Haven, the coffee house is open to all, providing a non-judgmental and welcoming environment.

2. Speakeasy Coffee Van

Funded by The National Lottery Community Fund Wales, this project takes support mobile. The electric Speakeasy Coffee & Shake Van reaches rural areas, providing:

• Mobile support for those needing help or advice.
• Opportunities for youth engagement at schools, colleges, sporting and community groups.
• Experience in serving the public at fetes and events.

3. Warm Nights / Safe Spaces

Every Monday from 4-7 PM, the foundation offers free food and drinks at the Community Coffee House, funded by PAVS. This initiative provides:

• A warm, safe space with free hot meals and drinks.
• Games, craft nights, and a friendly environment for socialising or relaxing.
• No referrals needed, open to everyone.
• A successful track record, with over 3,000 hot meals and drinks provided last winter and over 20 new referrals for mental health support.

The Megans Starr Foundation continues to make a profound impact in Pembrokeshire, empowering young people to lead healthy, fulfilling lives. Their dynamic approach to mental health support is a beacon of hope in the community.

For more information and to support their initiatives, visit the Megans Starr Foundation website, at their Community Coffee House or follow them on social media. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of young people facing mental health challenges.

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