“IT was a great success but there’s more work to be done” – that was the verdict of the Reverend Steve Levett of the Emmanuel Church who helped run a shelter for the homeless over the Christmas holiday.
Radiate Redditch, located in the Ecumenical Centre on Evesham Walk, held its annual ‘Christmas Night Hub’ from Monday, December 25 until Wednesday, January 2.
Each year it provides hospitality and community for people in social need.
“It was a fantastic turnout. We had up to seven rough sleepers staying each night,” said Rev Levett.
“We also had a Daytime Hub which was open to guests from 11am to 4pm and offered snacks drinks, hot lunches and entertainment.
“Around 50 people would turn up each day.”
On Christmas Day rough sleepers were treated to a roast dinner, which included three turkey crowns donated by staff at The Hollybush pub on Gorcott Hill.
“I want to say a massive thank you to the volunteers who dedicated their time over Christmas and also to all those who donated food,” said Rev Levitt.
Centre manager Nicki Farnes said she finds it hard to say goodbye to the rough sleepers each year.
“It’s really difficult because you get attached to everyone and their story and you don’t want to see them back on the street again,” she said.
“But we will continue to help in any way we can.”
