Local Causes
Volunteering For Homeless Charities In Exeter
Homelessness is an issue seen in many of the UK's cities, including Exeter. In fact, in 2017 it was reported that the city had the second highest rate of rough sleepers in the south of England after London.
Why Volunteer For A Homeless Charity In Exeter?
Despite these worrying figures, there are ways to help improve the situation, thanks to the many wonderful charities that operate in the area. From those that tackle youth homelessness to those that find safe housing for people in need, Exeter's homeless charities do vital work - but they need more support.
Volunteering with a charity that actively helps vulnerable people is a great way to give back to your community. As well as taking a look at local organisations for opportunities, remember you can also play People's Postcode Lottery, as funds from every ticket go to a range of good causes.
Homeless Charities In Exeter That Need Your Help
St. Petrock's has been operating for nearly 25 years to deliver valuable aid to those sleeping rough in the Exeter area. From its centre in Cathedral Yard, the charity is able to offer a range of services, from accommodation through to medical advice and addiction support. It works hand in hand with other organisations and professionals who provide specialist help such as private housing and health and wellbeing services.
The charity's centre is mostly run by volunteers who give up their time to talk to clients during St. Petrock's daily drop-in sessions, as well as help out in the kitchen to serve up hot meals. The organisation also needs people to run its various housing projects, including emergency accommodation. It also has an Amazon Donations Wish List of items like clothing and toiletries if you'd rather help out in a less hands-on way.
Another local charity that works with vulnerable people across Devon is the Exeter Community Initiative. It organises various programmes that aim to empower and educate people who are homeless or living in poverty to get their lives back on track.
The Exeter Community Initiative's projects try to get people involved with their local community, so they can not only learn new skills but also improve their overall mental health and wellbeing. These vary from working in the organisation's charity shop, Jelly, to learning repair skills in their bike bank. The Initiative also has great links with other charities in the area (including St. Petrock's), to provide things like accommodation and financial assistance to the homeless.
There are multiple opportunities for volunteering at the Exeter Community Initiative, whether it's as a mentor, a marketing assistant or a shop keeper. It also always needs people to assist with important fundraising charity events in Exeter.
The YMCA is a well-known national charity that specifically helps young people achieve their dreams by providing support for those suffering from things such as abuse, addiction or homelessness.
The YMCA in Exeter is one of the oldest branches of the charity in the UK. At its centre on St. David's Hill, the organisation offers advice as well as opportunities for employment and voluntary placements. It also has four supported accommodation units spread across the city in addition to dozens of youth clubs that act as safe spaces for kids and young adults to build up their skills and self-esteem.
You'll find plenty of volunteering positions at the YMCA in Exeter. The charity is often in need of people to help with CV and employment coaching as well as to get involved with their local fundraising events in Exeter and the surrounding area. Players of People's Postcode Lottery have also helped, as the Exeter group has received £20,000 in funding.
Formerly known as Community Housing Aid, Julian House is a regional charity committed to finding comfortable, safe and affordable housing for those in need. It works with hundreds of people every year and provides invaluable support for both individuals and families who are homeless or at risk of becoming so.
As well as offering food and a winter night shelter, Julian House in Exeter is also able to aid the homeless in more long-term ways, through job training, health and wellbeing programmes and criminal justice services.
Julian House has a range of volunteering opportunities across Devon and the surrounding counties - take a look at their website for current openings. It also organises various fundraising events, from sleep outs to marathons.
How Can You Show Your Support?
Get involved with some great charities in your area by taking a look at our Local Causes directory. Don't forget to sign up to play People's Postcode Lottery too, as 32% of the ticket price goes to some truly worthy organisations.
Last updated: 05/03/2021
