Team effort transforms London day centre for people who are homeless
Homelessness
West Sussex
Nov 2012
Chichester Charity Reopens with Support from CRASH
The newly refurbished St Joseph’s night shelter in Chichester has re-opened its doors to rough sleepers thanks to the help of the property and construction industry’s charity CRASH.
St Joseph’s night shelter, which is part of homelessness charity Stonepillow, is located just south of Chichester. They offer shelter, information and support to empower vulnerable homeless people to make positive changes in their lives.
The need
The homelessness charity approached CRASH for help with the major £400,000 refurbishment of the property on the outskirts of Chichester.
The solution
St Joseph’s now provides 10 individual accommodation rooms with up-dated toilet and shower facilities, washing machines with driers, and a modernised kitchen diner.
How patrons helped
Working in partnership with CRASH patrons, St Josephs received professional expertise from EC Harris, materials free of charge or at a greatly reduced rate worth £16,410 from Knauf, British Gypsum, Altro, Premdor and Heckmondwike. CRASH pledged a cash grant of £30,000.
The social impact
St Joseph’s is open every evening throughout the year providing emergency access shelter for rough sleepers in the area. Places cannot be pre-booked, but clients are allowed to queue from 6pm. If there are more clients than spaces lots will be drawn to see who can gain access. Priority access is given to women and anyone who was unable to access on the previous night.
