Oxford charity makes 20,000 meals for the homeless this year
The Porch says the demand for its services is higher than ever
An Oxford-based charity that supports homeless people said they have seen an increase in demand for its services, with over 600 people coming for help this year.
The Porch, located in East Oxford, offers meals, showers and clean clothes to people who are rough sleeping or sofa surfing, as well as longer-term assistance with housing, mental health, addiction recovery and employment.
This year, they served nearly 20,000 meals for people facing homelessness.
Roger Lewins from the charity said the growing need is linked to the increasing economic pressures people are experiencing.
"We helped about 100 more people this year than we did previously," he said. " I think we can probably all agree that relates to the economic climate. There are less opportunities for people and a lot of people through fall through the safety nets unfortunately."
He added that the The Porch sees around 60 to 80 people walk through its doors each day.
Roger said that financial struggles stemming from the cost-of-living crisis have made it harder for people to afford basic daily needs.
“The cost of actually feeding and keeping warm are becoming beyond the means of the people we meet and help," he said.
He added that many face additional challenges, such as family breakups, addiction, physical and mental health issues.
Roger also explained that some of meals are prepared by people who have approached the charity, as part of The Porch’s Moving Forwards programme, which helps them learn valuable skills for employment.
The ingredients are sourced from donations and grown at the charity’s own allotment, where members can learn horticultural skills.
Roger said the charity steps up its efforts in the winter to help rough sleepers, opening up an additional space at their church building on Magdalen Road when the temperature drops below zero.
With costs rising alongside the increasing demand, The Porch has launched its annual winter appeal, which will run until 31st December.