Ilford Salvation Army issues night shelter volunteer appeal

Ilford Salvation Army is marking our 150th anniversary by once again opening its doors to vulnerable people over Christmas.

Lieutenants John and Naomi Clifton who run the community church are gearing up to open their night shelter on Clements Road for the fifth year running.

The Redbridge Cold Weather Centre runs for three months, from early December, and aims to provides a hot dinner and a warm bed to anyone in need.

Such is the expected demand for the night shelter that Lieutenants John and Naomi have issued an appeal for more volunteers to help them continue the lifesaving work.

Lieutenant John said: "We have an incredible team of staff, volunteers, guests and donors who play a part in making night shelter happen. However, we are looking to recruit more volunteers to make sure we are ready for when the winter kicks in. Put simply, the night shelter is a lifeline for so many people.

"There is so much work that happens with people facing homelessness throughout the year but when it comes to winter, people desperately need somewhere to keep warm and safe.  We're honoured to be able to provide that and so much more.

"People come back year after year to volunteer because they know that the shelter is a place that builds community: there's joy, there's heartache, there's laughter, there's tears.  It's what happens when people come to care about others."

Anyone interested in volunteering should visit www.ilfordshelter.com, email ilford@salvationarmy.org.uk or call 02084782961.

This year we are celebrating 150 years of transforming lives and it is still at the heart of every community today, supporting those in need.