Shedlife, which hopes to reach more people and change lives, opened its new building last month.
Through support from Barking and Dagenham Council, the charity was able to use land at the Thames Community Hub to build the permanent structure.
Over the years, the charity has been helping people from underrepresented groups in Barking, with the project starting as a way to help lonely men but has now expanded to help many more people in the community.
The new building was designed by University of East London students and constructed by Bellway.
Cllr Saima Ashraf, deputy leader of the council and cabinet member for community leadership and engagement, said: “Shedlife is a cornerstone of the community here in Thames View ward and I’m delighted that the council has been able to support the building of this fantastic new space for them.
“From talking to users and members of Shedlife, it’s clear that this new building will be vital as they expand their presence and the help and support they’re able to offer to the community.”
Donations, including a kitchen and appliances from the Vistry Group, timber for planters from the Skills-Builder Project, plants and shrubs from Acre Landscapes, and a commemorative plaque from CSS Group, helped to get the project completed.
Philip Francis, Bellway’s land and development manager, said: “We are very proud of our involvement with this fabulous local project which saw us build a ‘shed’ in Thames View.
“It was great to be at the launch of this building which has been designed to be used by the whole community.
“In truth, it is not really a shed – it is a stylish, modern cabin with views of the community garden.
“This warm and inviting indoor environment provides a calm and versatile space where residents can meet up, learn and practice skills and hobbies and enjoy time for themselves.”
