We have been successful in our application for grant funding to support Gravesend Methodist Church’s work with rough sleepers.
For the fourth year running, the council has successfully been awarded funding from the South East Consortium Foundation Fund, with £10,000 going to support the Methodist Church’s daytime hub, which provides a safe place for those who need to access a food bank, clothes bank, showers, laundry facilities and to meet with support organisations, such as the council.
Welcoming the grant, Cllr Jenny Wallace, cabinet member for Housing Services, said: “This is excellent news once again.
“The hub can host as many as 40 guests a day and the support and hard work of the team there provides a safe place for ourselves and partner agencies to work with those who are sleeping rough or are otherwise vulnerable and in need of support.
“Having this space helps us reach people before they become homeless and provide support to clients with vulnerabilities which will help prevent them reaching that stage.
“The work of the hub is invaluable, and they provide a trusted and reassuring presence for some of Gravesham’s most vulnerable people.”
Vicki Clarke, Gravesend Methodist Church’s Community Centre Manager, said: “The Daytime Hub is able to provide the venue and meet the immediate needs of those experiencing homelessness.
“Thanks to the rough sleeping team working closely with the Hub and providing their services within the Daytime Hub venue, we are able to work together and provide a full wrap around service for those most vulnerable.
“Together we can change and save lives.
“Thanks to the South East Consortium we are able to continue this vital service in Gravesham.”