At a time when many Nightshelters have closed down, we are determined to remain open and support people experiencing homelessness in Hampshire through this pandemic. People are often eager to know how they can help and be part of our positive change, here are seven ways to support the Nightshelter.
Volunteer
The Nightshelter is only able to operate thanks to our loyal volunteers who give up their time to come and work alongside our staff. At the moment we are open 24 hours a day so we are in need of new volunteers to come on board. We are looking for people to help out during the daytime at weekends and would also be interested to hear from anyone furloughed from their job with skills in event management, PR or IT. Find out more about volunteering with us here, if you think you might be able to help or want to find out more then get in touch, admin@winchesterbeacon.org.uk.
Fundraise
With life’s timetable still on pause for many for a while, it is a perfect opportunity to set yourself a sponsored challenge or hold a virtual event! It could be a fitness-related goal or perhaps see how many books you can read in a month, host a quiz or stream a live concert. The possibilities are endless!
Donate a good night’s sleep
Help us to continue our invaluable support for people who are experiencing homelessness. A donation of £10 will provide a home-cooked meal, toiletries, a shower, breakfast and a bed for the night for one person. A donation of £20 will give someone a one-to-one support session with on of our experienced staff so that the resident can start to plan for the future. Whatever you are able to give, you will be helping someone to escape the cycle of homelessness. You can donate online, via text or set up a regular donation. Find out how to donate.
Give items
The donation of items saves the Nightshelter over £33,000 each year. We are now accepting contactless donations of items on our most-needed list. Keep an eye on what we need, phone or email ahead if possible to check that we have storage space for your items and then drop off.
Sign up to our newsletter
By signing up to our newsletter we will be able to keep you posted with life at the Nightshelter. Read about residents’ experiences, hear from volunteers, meet staff and discover different ways to help us and people experiencing homelessness. Sign up here.
Get crafty
During lockdown, kind volunteers have been busy making macrame angels for us to sell at Winchester Christmas Market. Each guardian angel will be sold to cover the cost of person’s bed at the Nightshelter. Check out the tutorial by the talented Isabella from Twome and get creating! Tutorial.
Follow us and spread the word
For regular updates on life at the Nightshelter follow us on Facebook – @WinchesterChurchesNightshelter, Twitter – @WinShelter, Instagram – @Winchester_Nightshelter. And if you can, help us to spread the word about the positive work we are doing.
