Videos

Site was last updated: Thursday 17th May 2012

Christmas Unwrapped - Homelessness

Christmas Unwrapped - Homelessness # #

Date added: Tuesday 2nd November 2010
Latest updated: Wednesday 11th April 2012

FACTS:
■ There are between 20 and 30 rough sleepers in Exeter not including the vulnerably housed or sofa surfers.
■ Life expectancy is cut by almost a third for people living on the street.

 

St Petrock’s homeless charity in Exeter says it is in desperate need of sleeping bags and men’s shoes. The winter is on its way and the charity cannot keep up with demand for warm and dry clothing. They are essential items for people like ex-serviceman Rob who suffers from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. As well as practical support St Petrock’s also offers an emotional lifeline at Christmas. “It’s a time of refl ection and sadness for many but we do our best. It is not sociable on the street. You don’t build social networks,” says Gill at the charity. On Christmas Day four volunteers will provide Christmas lunch and gifts for the city’s homeless population. “Although some of our clients will be reunited with their families you can’t assume everyone has a family to go to,” says Gill. “It’s nice to have somewhere to go that is warm, welcoming and safe so you can enjoy a bit of Christmas,” says Rob.

Devon Community Foundation helped 44 groups helping people who are homeless or vulnerably housed in Devon over the last year.

DONATE NOW to alleviate homelessness in Devon.

Quality Accredited by Community Foundation Network to standards endorsed by the Charity Commission