HARC - '14 Days of Christmas' - 09/12/2022

“I was kicked out a few days ago and my wife moved another man in. I have been sleeping rough and really miss my kids. I am finding things very, very difficult but have been trying hard to hold myself together. 

I just needed someone to talk to, a friendly ear and some food, then I can start working out what my next steps might be. It’s a terrible time of year for this to happen” - a HARC guest

 “It’s lovely to chat with guests who you get to know over the years, but sad to think that they are still lonely, vulnerable or homeless. This motivates many of us to do more after the project has finished, by supporting other organisations in the city throughout the year, not just at Christmas” - a HARC volunteer

 

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HARC is now in its 43rd year, having provided a safe and warm day shelter for homeless and rootless vulnerable people between Christmas and New Year since 1989. Volunteers serve three hot meals a day over the festive period, with guests welcome to spend the entire day at HARC, should they wish. As well as the food, a warm welcome, company and something to do helps those who attend get through what can be a cold and lonely time of year. 

Read our blog about a volunteer’s first experience of HARC, from a couple of years ago: https://www.helpushelpsheffield.uk/blog/my-harc-experience

HARC is funded solely by the generous donations of the people of Sheffield. Donors range from churches to lunch clubs, schools to businesses, people visiting Xmas markets to specially organised events. 

The HARC project manager applies for small grants kindly given by local trusts and other charities.  HARC themselves support other charities that look after the same cohort of guests throughout the year, including the Sunday Centre and Ben's Centre.  Money is spent on food, presents and entertainment for guests but much of what they receive is either given or provided by the fantastic team of volunteers. 

Find out more about how you can support HARC, here: https://www.harcsheffield.org.uk/donate

 

Alison Wise for Help us Help