Help homeless people this winter (From Salisbury Journal)

Help homeless people this winter

10:30am Sunday 11th November 2012 in News By Morwenna Blake

FOR people sleeping rough winter is the toughest time of all, and homelessness charity Alabaré is asking people to spare a thought for those who have no choice but to bed down on the cold streets.

Alabaré’s Drop In Centre in Salisbury, which supports a great number of homeless people, is appealing for items to help them keep themselves warm and dry. People can help by donating sleeping bags, waterproof coats, trousers and boots, hats and gloves and warm socks.

The Drop In Centre is particularly desperate for donations of sleeping bags, which provide practical, warm and portable bedding for those sleeping rough. Keeping warm and dry can mean the difference between life and death.

Members of staff will distribute the sleeping bags and wet-weather gear to those who need it most via the Drop In Centre.

The centre is also in need of donations of food. Staff and volunteers provide hot food and drink to vulnerable adults on four days a week and are desperately in need of sugar, tea, coffee, orange juice and baked beans.

Washing powder is also needed to allow centre users to wash their clothes - often the only opportunity they get.

Any donations can be dropped off at the centre in Alabaré Place, Barnard Street: the charity chop in Catherine Street; and the Alabaré offices in Brown Street.

For more information contact Alabaré on 01722 322882.