In response to the coronavirus crisis, the Prebend Day Centre is facing an unprecedented change in order to comply with government guidance and they need the public’s support more than ever.
The doors of the day centre are now closed, and staff teams have been redeployed to delver essential food and toiletries directly to those who use the centre.
“We urgently need monetary donations to provide this new model of service delivery,” said SMART CJS, CEO, Anita McCallum.
“As people are no longer able to meet, we know that the church, other faith groups, rotary club,s school and college donations we rely on so heavily will not be received in the usual way – and particularly over Easter.
“We cannot survive without this essential income and we are launching a virtual Emergency Appeal today.
“The shortfall will be £25,000 unless we do.”
In line with government guidance, the SMART Prebend Centre is now delivering services via an outreach service.
“We will deliver to where the homeless are, whether that be a shelter, emergency accommodation or in the outdoors,” said Anita.
“We are working closely with Bedford Borough Council, King’s Arms and others in the community to make this work within the current emergency guidelines and to ensure our staff and volunteers are able to operate safely.”
The government guidelines are having a huge impact on everyone’s lives. Many rough sleepers have complex health issues placing them at significant risk.
“It will be difficult for them to adjust to a limit on their freedom and liberty, as it is for us all doing it in our own home,” said Anita.
“For some, the SMART team may be the only human contact they have.”
To donate to the SMART COVID-19 Appeal page: https://smartcjs.charitycheckout.co.uk/cf/covid-19-appeal
