Croydon Churches Night Shelter

Chris Waring, who is a member of the Churches Together in Selsdon and Addington forum, sends this update on co-operation between the local churches to lay on a night shelter facility for homeless people over the worst of the winter period.

In the article about the Croydon Churches Floating Shelter (CCFS) in the last issue of In Touch it was said that the hope was to open the shelter from November 1st this year. Seven churches volunteered to join the scheme for November and December and so the shelter is now up and running, and will continue until March 31st 2006. In our immediate area, Selsdon Baptist Church has been joined by St Mary’s, Addington and St Francis, Monks Hill working together with Croydon Jubilee Church. If you would like to become involved, please contact Paul Ware on 8657-0228.

I have been asked about the ‘starter packs’ to provide the basics for those who are just moving into accommodation after sleeping rough. There is no definitive list of what should be in such a pack but the examples below will give you a rough guide:

Plates x 2 Mugs x 2
Bowls x 2 Side plates x 2
Glasses x 2 Cutlery for 2
1 frying pan 1 casserole dish
can opener 1 multipurpose knife
1 tea towel 1 hand/body towel
1 small and 1 large saucepan

Other items that could be included are washing up liquid, box of matches, bed linen (clean, second hand), toiletries, socks and underwear. It is not necessary for everything to be brand new but it should be in good condition. Those who have been sleeping rough will usually have absolutely nothing and no family to help them out, so any of the small things that enable one to begin an independent life would be appreciated.

All donations are very gratefully received and much appreciated. Thank you for your support

Chris Waring

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