COMMUNITY organisations and groups across the country set aside time during the first week of August to consider ways to end homelessness.
AccordWest chief executive Neil Hamilton said Homelessness Prevention Week provides an opportunity for our community to stop, think and act to address the distressing situation which confronts many in our community and sadly is increasing in the South West.
Last month AccordWest operated its annual Coat-A-Thon Appeal which acknowledges people who are doing it tough, struggling to pay their rent, their bills and simply to keep warm.
“We have seen an increase of 25 per cent in people seeking assistance from our homelessness services over the past 12 months,” he said.
Mr Hamilton also reflected on increasing numbers of people living rough, sleeping in cars and overcrowding which puts additional strain on family and friends.
“Our services continue to run at capacity, as do other such as the Salvation Army, Women’s Refuges and the In-town Lunch Centre which caters for many homeless people who need a meal.’
AccordWest has its base in the South West and has a grass roots campaign this week as part of Homelessness Prevention Week.
Mr Hamilton expressed thanks to those who so generously donated coats and items for last month’s Coat-A-Thon Appeal and to the volunteers who committed their time to assist.
He urged the community to spare a thought for those who continue to struggle.