As communities across the globe mark World Homeless Day on Monday 10th October, local charity Sanctuary Trust officially opens the doors of its third shelter.
Located in New Street, the six-bedroom facility means the charity can now offer support and temporary accommodation for up to 30 men. The house will be for residents who have secured employment and are in the final stages of their journey to live independently.
The property provides the residents with everything they would expect to have in their own homes and they will continue to have access to Sanctuary Trust’s support and counselling services at the house, and when they move on.
Frank Walker (pictured), Chair of Sanctuary Trust, commented: “It is a significant milestone to open the doors of our third facility, particularly as we mark World Homeless Day, but we do so with a variety of emotions. On the one hand, it’s a real positive that we can accommodate more men who are experiencing hardship and help them to get back on their feet. On the other, it very clearly highlights the growing problem we have with homelessness in the island.
“This needs to be addressed as a matter of urgency, before the situation deteriorates further. Today, of all days, it is particularly poignant for us to really shine a light on the very hidden issue right here on our doorstep that local charities are having to manage.”
Sarah Tumelty, General Manager, added: “Demand for our services has been at an all-time high in the past couple of years and we anticipate this is only set to increase with the cost of living and housing crisis the island is experiencing. Since the beginning of 2022, we have supported 21 new residents, but sadly have had to turn away 25 people, because all our rooms have been occupied.
Many of those men were added to our waiting list and subsequently offered accommodation. Having a property in town is a huge asset as, not only does it allow us to support more men in crisis, it also means our residents can more easily integrate back into the community. The transition from living in a shelter to living independently can be extremely daunting so now we can offer them a comfortable, homely environment and be there for them throughout the process.”
