Matt KeayCarecent at Central Methodist Church on St Saviourgate in York, provide much-needed food and shelter for the homeless, unemployed or disadvantaged members of our community. They offer a welcome respite for those of us who struggle day to day, providing food, clothing, and fellowship in a safe, clean, warm and friendly environment. Without fail, Carecent is open to everybody, regardless of background or age, six mornings a week – Monday to Saturday from 8:30am to 10:45am. There a team of four volunteers each day (two male, two female), on hand to provide hot drinks, a square meal, or even just a natter.
They rely entirely on donations from the public to keep this service going – everything from food, clothing, books, toiletries, money and time. So if you have a few extra tins spare in your kitchen cupboard, a wardrobe in need of a clear out, or simply realise you’ll never actually get round to reading that George Orwell or Harry Potter novel, then make sure it goes to a good home. They regularly receive donations from schools and shopkeepers but welcome anything that you have to spare, specifically fresh, healthy items like fruits and vegetables, and toiletries that can be expensive to buy.
This Christmas Day, and every year, they are offering a free lunch for forty homeless people, and each will receive bags of gifts such as hats, gloves, sweets and toiletries to help them though the festive period. Karen Berridge, a volunteer at Carecent, welcomes all that come in, and was keen to add that Carecent is not just open to homeless people, but those on low-incomes that need advice and even those that just need a chat.
If you’re thinking you could also lend a few hours to volunteer one morning, they’d love to hear from you too. The more, the merrier.
To find out more, visit Carecent’s website.
