The Technical Support team on our defence National Housing Prime contract are helping the homeless this winter by supporting the Whitechapel Centre. Paula Hart and Rachel Winslade, Technical Compliance Co-Ordinators, have organised a collection in their office at The Matchworks, Liverpool.
There has been an increase in homelessness locally and nationally so their support is much needed, especially with the weather getting colder as we get closer to Christmas. Paula and Rachel, who are being supported by the rest of the team, are asking employees at the Customer Service Centre them to bring in non-perishable food, clothing and toiletries to donate to the centre.
The team are also giving up their gifts for Secret Santa this year and putting the £10 each that they would normally spend into a collection for the centre instead. The Whitechapel Centre is expecting around 100 people to join them for Christmas Day and offer breakfast, a three course lunch, a Christmas gift, afternoon entertainment and a light tea for those who would otherwise be alone for the day.
The Whitechapel Centre is open every day throughout winter, including Christmas Day and New Year, and offers showers, clean clothing and a hot meal. In addition, the centre also offers support and housing advice for those who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. Overnight shelter is also available at their Labre House offering warmth and safety for those on the streets and they also manage two family hostels, which have families with children of all ages staying.