Homelessness charities share building society funding

Homelessness charities in Yorkshire are to share £156,000 in funding to support their work amid the cost-of-living crisis.

The Leeds Building Society Foundation is handing grants to five charities through the funding scheme aimed at supporting people “in need of a safe and secure home”, it said.

The largest award, of £89,900 has been made to Nomad Sheffield, which provides secure housing to people at risk of homelessness.

“We often receive referrals for individuals who do not qualify for social housing or supported accommodation, so this donation allows us to support people who have nowhere else to turn,” said Nomad Sheffield fundraising and communications coordinator Laura Patchett.

“The generous donation will make a huge impact on homelessness in Sheffield.”

Meanwhile, Leeds Asylum Seekers Support Network will use its £60,590 to support the running costs of accommodation it provides to asylum seekers.

Jon Beech, the Network’s director, said: “These properties will provide refuge and allow people to recover from rough sleeping as we work with them to resolve their immigration difficulties.”

Also benefitting from the funding is Leeds based charity Zarach, which provides support to children in need of housing, food or basic items. It has been handed £54,667 to cover the cost of a family support worker.

“We believe that well-rested and well-fed children are ready to learn, which is why we provide beds, bedding, pyjamas, toiletries and teddies to children who need them,” said Zarach charity manager Keiran Malko.

Other charities to benefit include Rotherham homelessness charity Shiloh and Bradford Night Stop, which provides emergency accommodation to young people.

“From providing beds for children who don't have a safe place to sleep, to supporting young people with emergency accommodation, and refuge for people who quite literally have nowhere else to turn - the charities we're supporting with funding really are providing a lifeline for some of the most vulnerable,” said Leeds Building Society Foundation chair Gary Hetherington.