The Belfast Homeless Service has announced that it is moving to a new location in an effort to expand the vital work it does supporting the most vulnerable in Belfast.
The service has been based at Blackstaff Square on Amelia Street for 10 years and provides food and shelter, and is now relocating to King Street in Belfast City Centre so that it can increase its operations from three nights a week to seven.
The announcement coincides with Homelessness Awareness Week which runs from December 2 to 8, with Olympic medal winner Lady Mary Peters lending her support to the service and commending it for being a lifeline for those in need.
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James McGinn of Belfast Homeless Services said: “Sadly, homelessness across Belfast and Northern Ireland continues to be a significant issue and currently affects over 58,000 people. The problem is growing and whilst organisations including the Housing Executive, Simon community, the East Belfast Mission and The Welcome Centre, are working hard to address this, as a society, we urgently need to do more to help make meaningful change.
"There is a vital need for a place, a home, a haven in the city for people who are disadvantaged and find themselves isolated and desperate, lonely and hungry. We hope that by moving the Belfast Homeless Shelter to a new location on Amelia Street, that we will be able to extend the number of nights we can open every week to give people living on the streets somewhere to go. It is our vision that this move will enable us to merge with other voluntary groups, to increase our services and together we can provide the much-needed lifeline and support that the people in our community need.”
“However, the move to our new premises comes with increased operating costs, and whilst we are very appreciative of our current supporters, we will need the help of the public across Northern Ireland to help us achieve our mission. We are actively seeking dedicated individuals to join the Board of Trustees for Belfast Homeless Services and are also encouraging people to support the charity by donating to the JustGiving link which can be found on our website,” James added.
Lady Mary Peters said: “I commend Belfast Homeless Services for opening a new shelter and in doing so, they will be able to help even more people. Sadly, for so many people in our community, homeless shelters are a lifeline – providing accommodation and safety for people living on the streets with nowhere to sleep. It’s a place they know they will find a welcoming face, people who care and like they can feel like a real person. I would encourage anyone who can afford to make a donation, no matter how small, to do so. Your help will go a long way and make a big difference.”
To make a donation please go to www.belfasthomelessservices.com or if you are interested in joining the charity’s board please emai l [email protected]
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