Humza Yousaf saw for himself the impact visited Stornoway's Shed project is making on the Lewis community during a recent visit.
The First Minister praised the “inspiring” work of the people behind the project who work with both young people and adults in recovery.
Claire Smith, one of The Shed trustees, said: “The Shed team was delighted to welcome Mr Yousaf as the project prepares to celebrate its first decade next month.
"The First Minister and his team spent a couple of hours with staff and volunteers, and he was able to speak to each team represented.”
She added the café team spoke of their support of all in addiction recovery and as part of the Ark and Well groups while the youth team told of their work in mentoring in Stornoway Primary, Laxdale Primary and the Nicolson Institute, Stornoway's secondary school.
"The FM also paid a visit to an extremely busy Little Stars group in the church sanctuary, where parents were able to speak of the challenges locally with nursery care and we were also able to tell Mr Yousaf about our unique working model for partnership and co-creating programmes with local agencies."
The Shed project grew out of the Christmas Giving Tree initiative from Martin's Memorial Church in Stornoway, which partnered with local agencies to provide gifts for their service users.
Following the donation of land to build on and funding from various agencies, including a grant and loan from The Church of Scotland General Trustees, the Shed Project opened in May 2014 as a neutral space where individuals could come for support and fellowship if they did not feel comfortable going to church.
Each week, up to 200 young people attend the various events held at the venue. For the older age group, drop-in support is offered for adults dealing with addiction issues as it lives up to its mission statement: "Serving the Community to the best of our Ability".
A programme of events is being organised to mark the facility’s tenth anniversary.
The Shed Project has also launched a Crowdfunder appeal to support its rapidly expanding youth and schools work which has “grown beyond recognition over the last few years."
Youth and schools' manager, Matthew Macneil, said: “With the future support of our generous community, we aim to continue this work, amplify our impact and reach even more young people, nurturing their potential and empowering them to thrive."
The fundraising appeal is available at www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/the-shed-project .
Humza Yousaf met with the team and volunteers
First Minister visits church led Stornoway community project
11 April 2024