Dear all,

Because of the ongoing Corona Virus pandemic the Serving the Homeless Committee have had to cancel all our planned events for this year. However, we would like you to know that we have been able to continue to give £250 per month to HARP out of our reserves, and our 200 Club funding. This is providing basic food supplies to their clients. HARP is housing nearly 200 people in its properties at the present time.

We have also been able to give £1000 to Westcliff SVP Society, who are organising meals and support facilities for the 100 rough sleepers who have been temporally housed by Southend Council for the duration of the pandemic. The council has taken over hotel accommodation to house them as it was no longer safe to keep the Night Shelters open and have people living on the streets. The risk of spreading infection was too great.

This is at least one positive that we can take from this terrible time; that the most vulnerable in our town have for a time, a place of quiet and safety each day and a bed every night. Perhaps for some this will be a chance to heal and rediscover a new meaning in life.

Stay safe, and God bless us all.

Jo Ronan