Charity's van helping rough sleepers make homes thanks to Shuttle readers

A year ago, kind donations from Shuttle readers funded a new van for local homeless charity HELP.

The Shuttle Run Appeal, which ran from February to September to mark the newspaper’s 150th anniversary, successfully raised £10,000 to buy the vehicle.

A year on, the charity has not only been able to feed up 80 people per night during lockdown, they've also been using the van to collect furniture donations to help those in need create a home.

Furniture and supplies loaded onto the new van

The help to home branch of the charity has been able to help homeless people move into their own home. They have done this by assisting with beds, tables, chairs and other furnishings.

Dave Griffin, founder of the HELP, said: "Our small unit is overflowing with generous items gifted from the community to help those in need."

One young man supported by the charity thanked the HELP team and said: "I am now in my new place and things are going great finally.

"It meant the world to me knowing that there were some really kind people out there helping people out there like myself and others that are struggling."

HELP founder Dave Griffin and volunteer Jo Ridsdill-Wardle in the new Shuttle Run van

Those who want to support the charity can provide food donations at stations including Gourmets on Comberton Hill, Kidderminster pharmacy on Stourport Road, Costcutter in Marlpool and the Station Inn, Farfield.

The charity is in need of volunteers to sort out clothing and furniture and to join their fundraising team to help with events.

There is a Halloween themed event being held at the Gainsborough House Hotel in Kidderminster on October 15 - with all proceeds going to HELP. Tickets cost £10 and are available by contacting Susie Griffiths on 07814 188709.