Homelessness charity in Sheffield faces 'biggest challenge' during coronavirus outbreak

The Cathedral Archer Project is continuing to provide essential support including takeaway meals and access to showers, laundry services and telephones for Sheffield’s homeless population.

It also plans to deliver up to 120 hot meals a day to people who would struggle to feed themselves while they are asked to stay indoors to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

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But the charity’s CEO, Tim Renshaw, has warned this might not be possible without the public’s generosity as it struggles to make ends meet during the pandemic, following the cancellation of planned fundraising events.

Sheffield Council has offered hotel accommodaion to all the city’s rough sleepers to get them off the streets and keep them safe during the coronavirus crisis but not everyone has taken up the offer, while others who have a roof over their heads are at greater risk than ever, meaning the charity has a vital role to play.

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“We’re still helping what’s left of the city centre’s rough sleeping population and we’re also looking to provide meals for people who are in accommodation but will struggle to look after themselves,” said Mr Renshaw.

“We need to make sure that however long this goes on for we can continue to provide them with these essential services.

“Our priority is to help people self-isolate. but when you have groups of people used to being on the streets asking them to stay inside by themselves is a really big ask when you consider some of the anxiety problems they have.

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“We know they have to do it and we have to do everything we can to help them be successful.

“We’re needed more than ever and this is our biggest challenge, but we’re relying on the public’s generosity so we can continue to be there for the city’s most vulnerable people.”

For more about the Cathedral Archer Project, and to donate, visit www.archerproject.org.uk. You can also donate via the charity’s JustGiving page.