A Penrith community group has teased its 'exciting plans' for 2025 as well as thanking those who have supported it in 2024. 

The Purple Footprint Project, which has a team of seven people, was launched in Penrith on October 9, 2023, and in the nearly 14 months since its creation has aimed to reduce loneliness and connect all age groups in the community.

The project was launched by Penrith local Cameron Stewart who has overseen the creation of initiatives such as Purple Footprint's 'Pay it Forward' scheme, which was launched in May. 

This scheme sees people pay in advance for snacks and drinks at Penrith cafes, that the group has partnered with such as the Cosy Cup Cafe, Arturo Lounge, and Three Crowns Tea Room. 

As 2024 draws to a close, Cameron was keen to thank everyone who has supported the group's scheme and invited more cafes from Penrith and Carlisle to get involved in 2025.

He said: "We have had a busy couple of months recently.

"The Purple Pay Ahead is going really well and our team member Jane Wilkinson-Shute, very kindly presented each cafe with a box of sweets, to say thank you for all their support.

"This was a way to acknowledge all the time and great energy each business gives to the Pay Ahead.

"We would like to invite any Penrith or Carlisle cafe businesses, to join the Pay Ahead idea.

"It really reduces loneliness and connects everyone in the community. It also provides a boost when people might be having a tough day.

"No matter your circumstances, everyone can take off the boards and add to them if they like."

The project also held a successful craft sale stall in Patterdale, as part of its rural outreach program, and part of the amount raised at this event will go towards the Boundary Walk in July 2025.

Ahead of the new year, Cameron teased some of the 'exciting' plans that the community group has on the horizon.

He said: "As a project, we would like to thank everyone for their incredibly generous support in 2024 and wish everyone a very happy and healthy Christmas and New Year for 2025.

"We have lots of exciting plans for next year. I also want to thank the project team, for giving so much time that helps the project run."