Maidstone Day Centre for Homeless and
Vulnerable People GOOD NEWS about Maidstone Day Centre's new home in Knightrider Street. The long awaited planning permission has been granted, the site has been cleared and by the time you read this, building should have started. The new premises, which are scheduled to open in spring 2004, will provide a day centre and also accommodation for homeless people. English churches Housing Group will run the accommodation and Maidstone Christian Care will be responsible for the new Day Centre. At our present premises, Lenworth House, around 45 people come each weekday for a hot meal, friendship and help with problems. The number is likely to increase when we move bringing greater need for our services which include an effective resettlement programme. This programme aims to guide homeless people towards living independently and where possible working within the community. Already this year, two clients have started college to improve their employment prospects and homes have been found for several more people. At the new centre we are planning to run introductory training courses in trades like painting and decorating, furniture repair or plumbing. As well as giving a tremendous boost to damaged self esteem, this could equip our vulnerable men and women to embark on further training or to seek employment Winter is always the hardest time for homeless people and this last one has been no easier but your help and your prayers always make a difference. |