Emmaus Dover Issues Urgent Winter Warning for Vulnerable Rough Sleepers

Emmaus Dover Sounds Alarm on Winter Dangers for Rough Sleepers

As a harsh winter chill descends upon the county, the homelessness charity Emmaus Dover has made an urgent plea for residents to watch out for the most vulnerable members of the community. The colder months bring far more than mere discomfort—for individuals sleeping in tents or doorways, the plummeting temperatures present a severe, life-threatening risk.

Increased Perils During Freezing Conditions

Debra Stevenson, chief executive officer of Emmaus Dover, emphasized that while the charity operates throughout the year, winter introduces an elevated level of danger on the streets of Kent. She stated, "Winter brings added urgency to this work. The colder months can be an incredibly dangerous time for people rough sleeping, but it's also a time when the Kent community can come together to protect one another."

Four Critical Steps for Public Action

The charity has detailed four essential ways the public can take immediate action to assist those in need:

Report Rough Sleepers: If you are concerned about someone sleeping rough, report their location via StreetLink at thestreetlink.org.uk. This alerts local outreach teams who can provide emergency shelter and support.
Offer Direct Assistance: Instead of cash, Emmaus recommends giving food, hot drinks, or gift cards. A simple act of kindness and a brief conversation can significantly reduce the profound isolation experienced by homeless individuals.
Donate Essential Items: High-quality sleeping bags, warm socks, gloves, and hats are currently in high demand to help combat the cold.
Support Through Purchases: Emmaus Dover offers more than just a bed; it provides "companions" with a home, personalized support, and meaningful work opportunities to aid in rebuilding their lives. Supporting the charity often involves donating to their second-hand store, but thoughtful contributions are crucial.

Guidelines for Effective Donations

Gerry Golden, shop manager at Emmaus Dover, explained that while donations are vital to the charity's operations, residents should consider one simple question before bagging items: "Will it sell?" He added, "If you think it's a real goner, it probably is. If it's not suitable for reuse, with the greatest respect, please take it to the tip."

The team strongly advises against leaving donations on the doorstep after hours, as items exposed to the weather can be ruined or scattered, incurring clean-up costs for the charity. Mr. Golden noted, "The best time to donate? Anytime we're open."

You can support the mission by visiting the Emmaus Dover store at Archcliffe Fort. Purchases and donations directly fund housing and support for formerly homeless people in East Kent.

What to Donate and What to Avoid

The "Yes" List:

Bric-a-Brac: Mr. Golden said, "It makes up about 25 percent of our sales. People love hunting through it."
Upcycling Projects: Minor cosmetic damage on furniture is acceptable. Modern shoppers appreciate affordable items like a £10 chest of drawers they can paint themselves.
Clothing: Good quality clothes are the shop's "bread and butter." Damaged items are sent to ethical recycling companies, ensuring nothing is wasted.
Seasonal Items: Timing is not an issue. Donations such as Christmas decorations in June are stored in a designated "cage" until the appropriate season.

The "No" List:

Safety Risks: Large sports equipment and safety gear are typically rejected due to liability concerns.
Unlabelled Furniture: Most modern upholstered furniture must have a fire label (unless it's pre-1950s) to be legally resold.
Faulty Electronics: Emmaus conducts PAT-testing on all electrical items. While working appliances are welcome, broken items, printers, or Sky boxes cannot be accepted.