A GRANDFATHER from Bromsgrove has become one of the first to help Crisis assist people affected by homelessness during the coronavirus pandemic.
Julian Cobbledick has been volunteering for the charity for several years – providing education, training and support at Crisis’ Skylight Centre in Birmingham – as well as helping out at the Christmas shelters.
He is volunteering his time during the coronavirus pandemic by delivering care packages containing food, tissues, hand sanitiser and copies of the Government’s health advice.
He has also offered a friendly voice on the phone to people who might be feeling isolated.
Julian said: “I’m happy to help Crisis out however I can because I have seen the amazing work the charity does.
“Yesterday when I delivered a food parcel, a lady who had a couple of children with her broke down in tears she was so grateful.
“At a time when we are being told to stay home to keep ourselves and others safe, you appreciate even more the challenges people without a home, or those living in hostels, face.”
Crisis has launched its ‘In This Together’ campaign, aimed at providing vital support for people suffering during the outbreak by raising funds and supporting volunteers.
Cash raised will go towards keeping Crisis’ services running and those of smaller, local homelessness charities who are struggling in these unprecedented times.
Richard Lee, Crisis’ director of fund-raising, said: “Having a safe place to live is an essential human need and in times like these it couldn’t be more important.
“We are so grateful for the commitment and dedication of volunteers like Julian who are going the extra mile to help those who are especially hard hit by this outbreak.
“Although it is a difficult time for everybody, we are heartened by the generosity of people offering their time or wanting to contribute financially towards ensuring people affected by homelessness remain safe.”
Visit crisis.org.uk/get-involved/in-this-together for more on the campaign.
