Blackpool Bridge Project still offering hope to those experiencing homelessness

Blackpool Bridge Project still offering support and hope to those experiencing homelessness.

The Salvation Army in Blackpool has continued to support the vulnerable members of the local community as it adapts its services during the coronavirus pandemic.

A lunch stop has been set up in the car park of the church and community centre, located on Raikes Parade, for those in the town experiencing homelessness and times of crisis.

Operating on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 12:30pm for one hour at the rear of the church and community centre, in the car park, The Salvation Army’s Bridge Project offers hot and cold takeaway lunches to vulnerable members of the town, ranging from a jacket potato to sandwiches.

Captain Simon Clampton from The Salvation Army in Blackpool said: “The vulnerable people of Blackpool desperately need our help and although we have had to adapt the services that we offer, we will not retreat at a time when we’re needed most.

“The challenges that we, and indeed the community, face in these times are enormous but supporting those that can’t support themselves at this difficult time is what is key. We hope that by providing this lunch service it will allow people to find the strength to keep going and of course have interaction, at a safe distance in line with guidelines, at a time when they may not see anyone else.”

Observing social distancing guidelines set out by the Government, each visitor is to keep two metres apart when queueing in line for food with measurements clearly marked for all to see on the floor. Staff and volunteers are also observing the guidelines working at a distance from one another to ensure the service can still continue.

The Salvation Army Blackpool is also working with other organisations in the town to signpost individuals to other services that can help during the coronavirus crisis.