A Manchester homeless charity were overwhelmed by thousands of generous donations of hats last weekend after launching an appeal to deliver food warmth for people living on the streets.
Barnabus, a Christian homeless charity based in Manchester, has been working to bring hope and support to people living on the streets for 23 years and are preparing to face their busiest time of year providing food and warmth as winter approaches
Their latest appeal has seen an astonishing 4,400 hats delivered, some with heart-warming messages inside to give to some 500 homeless people that walk through the charity’s doors each week.
The charity also set up a stand at Woman’s Weekly show at Event City to raise awareness for their campaign with hundreds of hats donated over the weekend.
Carol Price, Barnabus Development Manager, said: “Autumn and winter can be a particularly life threatening and depressing time of year for anyone who has to sleep rough on the streets.
“It’s also sadly, our busiest time. Our first priority on a daily basis is keeping people fed, warm and as dry and safe as possible. Only then can we look at other ways to improve their circumstances.
“Many of the hats have been sent to us containing hand written notes from people whose relatives have experienced homelessness and also little old ladies whose eyesight is failing but they have done the best to knit hats for us, it’s just so amazing!”
The charity was first set up with one man walking the city streets meeting the homeless giving out food and drink.
It has now grown into numerous teams of street volunteers and in 2000 a “Beacon” drop-in situated in the very heart of Manchester was set up.
They are now open five days and four evenings per week serving hot food, providing clean clothing, blankets, hot showers and toiletry packs.
Barnabus have also launched their ‘Urban Harvest’ appeal urging people to donate food, clothing and other house hold essentials.
To donate to Barnabus, items can be received at their office at 61 Bloom Street, Manchester M1 3LY, between Monday and Friday 10am to 3pm.
To find out more about Barnabus’ work, click here.
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