Amidst the rolling hills of Scotland, a unique initiative is transforming lives through the power of rock climbing. A Christian charity, East Ayrshire Churches Homelessness Action (EACHa), has partnered with Above Adventure to help individuals overcome addiction and reintegrate into society.
Since its inception by Rev David Cameron in 2005, EACHa has brought together 20 churches from various denominations to support the vulnerable in Kilmarnock. Their innovative New Heights programme offers rock climbing sessions designed to build resilience and self-confidence among recovering addicts.
Described as more than just a fitness endeavor, the program aims to demonstrate God’s love by fostering hope, strengthening community ties, and unlocking potential. It specifically targets areas like Shortlees and Onthank, known for severe social deprivation as highlighted in the Scottish Multiple Deprivation Index.
Kris Fearon, EACHa’s development manager, emphasized the program’s role in breaking cycles of deprivation. “This high level of deprivation often leads to social challenges such as youth disengagement, limited access to recreational activities and increased risks of crime and substance abuse. We aim to inspire people to break the cycle of deprivation, equipping them with the tools to build a brighter future,” he explained.
Efforts to make the program widely accessible include promotions through schools, social media, and local services. Mr. Fearon also called upon the “wider church community to support New Heights – whether through prayer, volunteering or simply spreading the word.”
Operating from a former church until June 2025, New Heights hosts sessions for 15 to 20 participants, many of whom face homelessness and mental health issues. Activities span from rock climbing to bushcraft, each guided by experts to ensure safety and learning.
EACHa’s social impact report for 2024 noted that participants are encouraged “to push their boundaries, develop new skills, find empowerment in overcoming challenges,” and gain “a network of encouragement through a supportive community of peers and volunteers.” These experiences are pivotal for developing teamwork, goal-setting, and perseverance.
The success of the program is echoed by participants themselves: “New Heights showed me I’m capable of more than I ever thought and I’m climbing toward a better future.” This sentiment is reflected in the uniform feedback of all 61 participants from the 2024 project.
The New Heights initiative has received commendation from the Scottish Parliament, with a motion submitted by Brian Whittle, South Conservative MSP, praising its efforts to promote recovery through inclusion. The program’s future is secured for another year, thanks to a £9,886 grant from the National Lottery.
Expressing appreciation for the recognition and support, Mr. Fearon stated, “We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Brian Whittle MSP, for his motion lodged in the Scottish Parliament, which recognises the impact of New Heights. We are deeply grateful for this recognition and ongoing support. We are thrilled to have secured funding to extend this initiative for the next 12 months and we look forward to seeing the impact New Heights will have on people’s lives.”
In addition to New Heights, EACHa continues to support Kilmarnock’s vulnerable population through several initiatives. The Friendly Fresh Start initiative provided 220 home starter packs in 2024, assisting individuals transitioning from homelessness to permanent housing.
The Community Friends Drop-In centre distributed 2,383 food packs and served 4,383 meals last year, offering a safe space with meals and essential resources. Meanwhile, the Recovery Matters program facilitated 2,108 one-on-one support sessions and 556 external referrals in 2024.
Reflecting on the charity’s achievements, EACHa chairman Rev Cameron remarked, “I am proud to reflect on a year of growth, resilience, and deepened community impact. Through expanding services like the Community Friends Drop-In and EACH Recovery Matters, we have reached more people than ever, offering essential support to those facing homelessness, addiction and isolation. Our team, supported by dedicated volunteers and generous partners, has worked tirelessly to ensure that everyone who comes through our doors feels valued and connected. I am immensely grateful to all who support our mission and I look forward to what we will accomplish together in the coming year,” he stated.
This article was originally written by www.christiantoday.com
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