Volunteering For Homeless Charities In Plymouth

Volunteering For Homeless Charities In Plymouth

While homelessness is undoubtedly a problem on a national scale, worrying numbers of rough sleepers have been recorded in coastal locations like Plymouth. In fact, it's estimated that nearly one in every 48 residents in some of the UK's south-westerly cities are sleeping rough - and those numbers could easily increase if we don't come together and work to turn the tide on homelessness.  

There are many reasons why someone may end up living on the streets but, thankfully, there are also lots of charities out there trying to help. Whether it's to provide safe accommodation and employment assistance, or to offer support services for issues like addiction and health complications, they all do vital work.  

If you're local to the area, you'll find Plymouth has a handful of homeless charities that are always in need of volunteers. You'll also be helping by signing up to play People's Postcode Lottery, as a portion of the monthly ticket price goes to charity. That means you'll not only be giving yourself a shot at winning prizes, but also be helping to brighten futures and enrich lives too. 

Homeless Sanctuaries in Plymouth That Need Your Help

DEVON AND CORNWALL FOOD ACTION (PLYMOUTH) 

Working across Devon and Cornwall, this amazing organisation sources surplus food that would otherwise go to waste, bringing it to charities to redistribute to people in need. Devon and Cornwall Food Action (DCFA) has three hubs in the two counties, including one in Plymouth.  

It relies on volunteers to cooperate with other charities that can then identify those in the local community who need food. DCFA also requires people who can help identify potential food suppliers, whether that's local producers, manufacturers or supermarkets, and then intercept items before they end up in landfill.  

SHELTER

Shelter is a national homelessness charity that, as the name suggests, offers shelter, warmth and a chance at a better future for those currently living on the UK's streets. The charity was first founded in 1966 and now helps millions of vulnerable or disadvantaged adults and kids each and every year.  

In Plymouth, Shelter has a drop-in centre on Buckwell Street that offers advice, legal support and a friendly face to those living through homelessness or at risk of losing their home. The charity also refers people to other organisations in the area that might help with their needs. Why not get in touch to see if there are any volunteering opportunities at the centre?  

Shelter is also a great organisation to get involved with when it comes to fundraising and you should keep an eye out for their charity events in Plymouth.

SHEKINAH

This local charity was set up to provide assistance and support to those recovering from problems like drug addiction, alcoholism, aggression and mental health disorders. These issues can be large contributors to homelessness, and Shekinah consequently works with high numbers of rough sleepers in the area.  

From employment training and educational programmes to social support groups that help boost confidence, Shekinah offers a comprehensive list of services that aim to get more people living the life they deserve. Most of these are run by volunteers, so why not get in touch to see what you could do to help? 

As well as a drop-in centre in Plymouth, Shekinah also runs two charity shops that are in need of donations and volunteers to take on shifts. You could get involved with fundraising for the charity through an existing event in Plymouth or launching your own personal challenge.  

How Can You Show Your Support?

You can also show your support simply by signing up to play People's Postcode Lottery. For even more volunteering and fundraising opportunities in your area, have a look at our Local Causes directory.