Trying to raise money to provide three festive beds for the homeless

A LOUGHBOROUGH homeless charity is hoping to raise enough money to be able to give a bed to three people in need over the festive period.

Falcon Support Services, based in Pinfold Gate, Loughborough needs to raise £2,787 to be able to provide three emergency beds for a month.

The three beds will be based at the Falcon Centre, in Loughborough, which is part of the Housing Matters consortium in partnership with Nottingham Community Housing Association and The Bridge - another Loughborough homeless charity.

This is the third year that it has ran the #festiveshelter campaign, and volunteers are hopeful that it can raise enough money to give three people not only a bed, but enough for daily breakfast and dinner, as well as a Christmas dinner and to make the day a memorable one.

In order to be able to provide all of this they must raise £6,000.

Rachel Hall, service development manager for Falcon Support Services told the Echo: “Homelessness is a matter of concern at all times of the year but often features more on peo- ple’s minds in the winter, when the temperature drops.

“Homelessness is on the increase nationally and is often the end result of underlying support issues. It is something that can happen to anyone at anytime in their life.

“Christmas can be a joyful time celebrated with family, friends and exchanging gifts. Imagine if you didn’t have that. If you were waking up cold, homeless and alone on the streets.

“The festive period is often the hardest time and we want to be the ones making that difference.

“This is the third year running #festiveshelter and the last two years have been a resounding success with an amazing response from the local community, businesses and people holding fundraising events. We are hopeful this year will be just as much of a success.

“We also want to open our doors to the most vulnerable and isolated to provide a community Christmas Lunch.

“The Falcon Centre are also appealing for any donations of Christmas gifts, clothes, and food to help make this a memorable time for those most in need.

“A thorough assessment of need will take place and all appropriate advice and housing options explored. Our trained support workers and volunteers will also work towards sourcing alternative, longer term accommodation.”

The additional beds will run from Monday, December 4 till Wednesday, January 3 - if it raises enough money.

To donate visit www.globalgiving. org/projects/festiveshelter2017