VOLUNTEERS are needed to help Coventry’s homeless people through the winter months.
As temperatures drop, Coventry Winter Night Shelter is preparing to open churches in Coventry to provide rough sleepers with somewhere to rest.
The shelter runs from December 1 to March 31, and its services rely on the help of the public to stay open.
Organised by inter-faith group HOPE Coventry, the Winter Night Shelter provides rough sleepers with support, a hot meal, a bed overnight and breakfast.
Helen Needham, deputy co-ordinator of the shelter, said: “We need volunteers for three shifts, evening, night and morning. The night shifts in particular are more difficult to cover, so we would be delighted to hear from anyone that could cover this essential shift and keep the shelter open throughout the winter.”
She added: “The time spent at the shelter is a break from the harsh reality the guests are experiencing and is a place where they can relax and be listened to, cared for and even have a few laughs.
“We rely on the help of our invaluable volunteers, whose support is essential to enable the project to run and the venues to stay open. Volunteers are the backbone of the project, and we are very committed to making this a great experience for our volunteers by helping people to put their gifts and skills to action in a safe environment.”
“There are many tasks that you can take on during your shifts: from serving and cooking food, to socialising with our guests, preparing the beds, leading shifts, and even volunteering to wash the linen. There is no experience required to volunteer, as long as you’re an adult over 18 years-old.
“Whatever your circumstances, if you are willing to commit your time and are ready to work with homeless people, we would welcome you onto the team.”
To register interest in helping the shelter, email [email protected].
