New charity launch to help homeless in South Yorkshire

Street Friends was started in partnership with Dinnington Resource Centre by a group of volunteers passionate about helping vulnerable people.

Founder Rachel Havenhand recognised the effect the Covid-19 pandemic was having on many other charities that were being over stretched with increased demand for support.

Many self employed, and those on zero hours contracts had lost their jobs and were unable to pay their rents.

To support their efforts, Street Friends held a launch event at the Dinnington Resource Centre, supported by a donation from financial services provider Foresters Financial (Foresters) and organised by local Foresters member Jo Hudson.

A team of Foresters volunteers led by Jo put together 50 packs, containing vital items such as a hoodie, gloves, scarf, hat, wind up torch, sweet snacks and a sleeping bag, distributed to those in desperate need within the community.

Rachel said: “We noticed early in the pandemic that there were increased numbers of homeless and struggling people that needed our support in the community. To understand exactly what help they needed, we started getting to know these people, and Street Friends was born.

"The last 12 months have been an extremely lonely time for a lot people, and we feel that everyone should be offered a hot meal and warm clothing, as well as a chat and an offer of help if needed, without any judgement.”

Jo Hudson, Foresters member leader, said: “The impact of Covid-19 on the homeless community won’t be fully realised for some time but it was clear in Dinnington that extra support for the homeless and vulnerable was desperately needed.

“I saw the work that Street Friends were doing through their social posts and thought it would be the perfect charity for Foresters members to support. I hope to work with Street Friends again on future projects, as the group continues its valuable work.said.”

Street Friends was founded in partnership with the Dinnington Resource Centre but relies heavily on donations from the local and business community.

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