Help Needed for Homeless Charity


Barbara Young explains why she feels that Hereford Open Door, a charity based at St Peter’s Church, Hereford, is so badly needed and what you can do to help. Read more ...

Being unemployed and trying to exist without a supportive family is not the choice of lifestyle for most. By default, some drift into it. Then, perhaps, having fallen into the trap of living on benefits, maybe sleeping on a mate's floor, perhaps depending on alcohol to relieve the boredom, it is difficult to break free. It seems the chances of ever becoming an accepted citizen with head held high and a regular wage are slim.
 
A substantial meal and a welcoming smile means so much to those in need and this is what Hereford Open Door (HOD), a charity established nearly 10 years ago, can provide. Nobody asks awkward questions; a sympathetic ear is offered; concern is expressed and with an All Morning Breakfast, good table manners are expected. HOD is not a soft touch. It is well aware that clients may have made mistakes and may be alienated by society.

The volunteer workers at HOD do not expect miracles or sudden changes of character but they do understand that most of the visitors are in great need of something which money cannot buy - above all to be seen as potentially acceptable citizens. Sometimes it is hard to be non-judgemental when confronted by a loud-mouthed, ill-mannered and unwashed youth, for example. However, he is somebody’s child and now he is often very hungry. The least HOD can do is to give a meal that will see him through the day.
 
Visitors to HOD are not only young males. Older men and women who have lost their way in life, and young girls - some with babies, also become regulars at the Breakfast, which is provided on two mornings a week throughout the year, and at the Christmas Shelter, held for five or six days each December.
 
In order to maintain it's reputation of compassion and reliability, HOD needs a long list of regular volunteers for the rota. One duty per month is all that is expected. Willingness to do two is much appreciated by the organisers. The duty involves preparation of the meal, serving and clearing away and being friendly to visitors. If you can help in this much needed charity, please call the Chairman on 271561 or email open_door@btinternet.com.

Posted: Wed - November 2, 2005 at 07:52 pm          

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