We are now halfway through the second week of Lent and, as we continue to focus our thoughts on the theme of home and homelessness, we now turn our attention to the projects Lent Call is raising money for in Croydon.
Nightwatch operates 365 days a year, staffing a meeting point every evening where people who are street homeless can come for soup and a sandwich, advice, and a friendly ear. The organisation was founded in 1976 by a group of church people who wanted to do something about growing homelessness in the borough, and they continue to work with the same ethos. As well as providing food and clothing, volunteers also source items of furniture for people who have been resettled in a flat or hostel. For those who have lost everything, even a clock radio represents hope, as Nightwatch secretary Nicky Edwards says.
Here, Nicky talks about the work of Nightwatch, and what home means to her.
The other project which Lent Call is supporting this year is Renewed Hope, which runs a year-round drop-in centre and a winter night shelter. The drop-in operates every Monday to Friday between 11.00am and 3.00pm, providing a friendly place for the homeless, vulnerable and isolated to come and chat, have a free meal and form new friendships.
Renewed Hope has also recently opened Hope House, which gives four people a temporary home while the charity works with the council to find them more secure accommodation. Here, Andrew Tyers, fundraising coordinator at Renewed Hope, talks about the importance of a warm welcome, and how feeling safe is an essential part of feeling at home.
How to help
During this coming week, please think and pray about the people of Croydon, both those who are homeless or living in insecure accommodation and those who are working to help them. Download this week’s Project Sheet to find out more about the projects we are supporting and please consider giving to the Lent Call to help fund their work. You can find details of how to donate at: southwark.anglican.org/news-events/events/lent-call/how-to-give
We have created a series of Lenten Reflections based around the readings for each week. You can download these, and Worship Sheets aimed at those working with children and young people, from our Resources page: southwark.anglican.org/news-events/events/lent-call/resources
Whatever you feel you can do, please pray for God’s justice and equality for all, and remember all those who will be helped by the Bishop’s Lent Call projects this year, that they might find shelter, security and a place to call home. Thank you.
