It’s been a full and joyful few weeks at East Road, with residents and volunteers rolling up their sleeves, getting creative, and making our shared spaces feel more like home. From redecoration projects to baking triumphs, here’s a snapshot of what’s been happening at Jimmy’s.
Thanks to a generous donation — given with the freedom to use it where it was most needed — we’ve been able to invest in some items that truly transform how a space feels.
Brightening up the lounge
While we are incredibly grateful for regular donations of toiletries, bedding and food supplies, it can be harder to fund the larger “non-essential” items that help turn a building into a home. New coffee tables, rugs and lamps might not top a survival list — but they make a world of difference to wellbeing.
We’ve purchased several new lamps for the lounge, instantly making it feel warmer and cosier. Next on the wishlist? Big leafy plants and artwork to bring even more life and personality into the space.
High-Octane Jenga Tournament
Competition was fierce during our recent Jenga tournament! What started as a casual afternoon activity quickly turned into multiple heated rounds, with plenty of laughter (and dramatic collapses).
It was high-octane stuff — steady hands, intense concentration, and a lot of good-natured banter. Moments like these bring everyone together and remind us how important simple shared fun can be.
Courtyard Transformation with GHD Volunteers
Our East Road courtyard is a valuable outdoor space where residents can get some fresh air and a change of scene. Over time, it had become a little scruffy — so when volunteers from GHD joined us, we were ready to get stuck in.
Tyrone was particularly keen to take ownership of the project. He meticulously cleaned surfaces, swept the area, tidied plant pots and even jet washed the floor.
He later shared that the day felt like it went much quicker when he was busy with practical tasks. More than that, contributing to the space gave him a real sense of ownership — helping shape it into somewhere he’d be proud to call home.
A Fresh Coat of Paint — and Fresh Conversations
Although each resident has their own room, the communal lounge is where much of daily life happens. Recently, several residents — many with previous experience as painter-decorators — have been putting their skills to use.
With paintbrushes in hand, they’ve been giving the walls a fresh lick of paint and a new lease of life. Working side by side creates space for conversation that doesn’t always happen in a more formal setting. Sometimes it’s easier to talk while focusing on a shared task.
The result? Brighter walls, stronger connections, and a renewed sense of pride in the shared space.
Baking Confidence: A resident’s Cupcake Success
Last week, one of our resident’s had been feeling low and restless, sharing how difficult it can be to maintain good mental health while waiting for next steps.
When asked what might make tomorrow a slightly better day, he half-joked, “maybe cake.”
We decided that cake sounded like a brilliant idea.
Although Gary had never made cupcakes before, the next day he enthusiastically wrote a list of toppings and we headed to the shops together. After tripling the recipe (ambitious!), we got to work.
With care, precision and obvious pride, he produced a huge batch of the fluffiest cupcakes we’ve ever tasted. Other residents joined in decorating — and, of course, sampling — and everyone agreed he should make more.
The change in Gary was visible. He beamed with pride at trying something new, creating something from scratch, and receiving genuine encouragement from others. He’s now considering whether he could turn his baking into a small business venture — and is already planning to try a Victoria sponge next.
Making East Road Feel Like Home
These moments — whether redecorating, competing over Jenga, cleaning the courtyard, painting walls or baking cupcakes — all contribute to something bigger. They build confidence, connection, ownership and joy.
At East Road, it’s not just about providing accommodation. It’s about creating a home, fostering community, and supporting each person to rediscover their strengths.
A huge thank you to everyone who donates, volunteers, and supports the work of Jimmy’s Cambridge. You help make all of this possible.
Get Involved
If you’d like to help us continue creating a place that feels like home at East Road, there are so many ways to get involved.
Whether it’s making a donation towards furnishings and activities, volunteering your time, partnering with us as a business, or simply sharing our work with others — your support makes moments like these possible.
Together, we can continue building confidence, community and brighter futures.
👉 Donate, volunteer or find out more at: www.jimmyscambridge.org.uk
📞 Call us: 01223 576085
Thank you for being part of the Jimmy’s community.