Cornwall charity urges support for homeless people this winter
St Petrocs highlights importance of donations and kindness during cold months
A homeless charity in Cornwall is calling for ongoing support to help people experiencing homelessness during the cold winter months.
St Petrocs, which works to provide accommodation as part of its efforts to end homelessness, says emergency shelter and long-term assistance remain vital during this time of year.
The charity said the festive season is a time for compassion, with even small acts of kindness making a big difference.
Bosses added: “No one should face winter storms alone.
"When winter storms sweep in, most of us close the door, draw the curtains and stay warm. For people experiencing homelessness, there is no door to close, no walls to keep out the cold, no safe place to escape the wind and rain.
"The weather is only part of the battle. Every night, unsure of where to rest, there is a storm that no one can see — a storm of fear, isolation and struggle."
Sofia Roder, from the charity, added: "It's important, as a community that we look out for each other.
"The winter months can be incredibly cold, incredibly wet, incredibly dark, and incredibly isolating for people.
"Winter and Christmas is a time for reflection, and there are some in our community, for whatever reason, are sleeping outdoors."
Last year St Petrocs supported 538 people who would have otherwise been forced to spend winter alone, with 107 accessing emergency accommodation.
The charity is currently encouraging people to donate to its Winter Appeal to help fund these services and provide vulnerable individuals with safe spaces and life-changing support during the difficult winter period.