The shelter which was organised by Churches Together (which is made up of 21 churches in the Redditch area), and Redditch Nightstop UK (local homeless charity) organised and ran a homeless shelter for the Christmas period. This was staffed and supported by over 100 local volunteers who worked in shifts to prepare 3 daily meals, provide clean fresh clothes and toiletries, provide a safe warm place to stay and sleep, a friendly face to talk to and much much more to the guests of the facility throughout the time including Christmas Day when a festive lunch was served.

Sharon McCall, Volunteer Coordinator for Redditch Nightstop UK said “In the short space of time we had to organize the Shelter we were overwhelmed and inspired by the response of the local community in Redditch and surrounding areas – over 100 volunteers helped us to ensure all the guests were well looked after and cared for.  As the Shelter draws to a close staff will continue to work closely with the guests to support them in the future.”

Karen Lumley MP for Redditch County joined the volunteers to cover a shift at the Shelter and could not help to be overwhelmed by the generosity of local people not only in giving their time but also providing food, clothes, bedding and money to ensure this pilot project was a success.

Karen said “It was lovely to meet and spend time with some of the guests at the shelter over Christmas and interesting to hear their stories and find out how I could help them. I was greatly impressed by the commitment to help from all the volunteers at the shelter and was interested to hear about the groups plans for the future. I look forward to meeting with the group again soon to identify any further areas I can help them with going forward.”

Sarah Hooks, Night Shelter Manager – and one of the driving forces of the project draws on her past to work alongside the underprivileged and spoke of her life experiences used to improve the life chances and well being of others. She said “The Night Shelter has been a challenging and rewarding experience which has united the Redditch community in valuing the importance of each life. This project which has incorporated an incredible number of volunteers has been responsible for changing the lives of everyone who was supported by the program. No price can be placed on the success of this Night Shelter.”

The project opened its doors for those in need on 22nd December and concludes Wednesday 4th Jan due to location availability issues. However, talks are underway to see what else can be done in the community to help such individuals on a more regular permanent basis.

During this time, every single person who came to the shelter has been helped in terms of gaining access to the correct type of accommodation and/or support system they require to match their individual needs.

The photo shows Connie Swann volunteer, pastor Jim Hidderley, pastor Robin Baker, Sarah Hooks Night Shelter Manager and Karen.