The Salvation Army in Gloucester serves hot soup as winter bites

The Salvation Army in Gloucester is giving free hot meals to people who are homeless or vulnerable amid concerns that there is still time for temperatures to fall further this winter, increasing the number of people rough sleeping requiring immediate assistance.

In 2024, The Salvation Army in Gloucester served almost 4,000 (3,936) hot meals on a Monday lunch time at its hall to people who were vulnerable or experiencing homelessness. The church distributed 292 sleeping bags and 277 duvets to people at risk of rough sleeping and provided 2,267 supper bags that contain a sandwich, crips and biscuits, in addition to hot drinks, pot noodles or porridge.

Captain James Addis, leader of The Salvation Army Church in Gloucester, said: 

“We are deeply concerned about the growing number of people facing homelessness in our communities. On Mondays, at lunchtime, from our church building, we serve takeaway hot meals and hot drinks to people who are homeless and other vulnerable individuals. In the evenings, we drive our minibus around town, serving hot meals to people sleeping rough. We also provide bedding when needed.”

According to Annual Statutory Homelessness figures for 2023 to 2024, there was an 8.9 per cent rise in households in England who were homeless or at risk, as thousands of families struggle to make ends meet. Rough Sleeping Data Framework, September 2024 shows that in Gloucester, at least 17 people were rough sleeping. 

A spokesperson for Gloucester City Council said: 

“The council sends its thanks to the Salvation Army for the support it provides to many of the most vulnerable people in Gloucester. To alleviate rough sleeping, Gloucester City Council is urging residents to contact the council’s outreach team through Streetlink on 0300 500 0914 if they see anyone sleeping rough. Additionally, the council’s outreach team is active during severe weather conditions, providing accommodation and support to people sleeping rough as part of the Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP). The earlier people contact the council, the more support can be provided.” The Email contact is heretohelp@gloucester.gov.uk or people should call 01452 396396 for assistance.

Captain Addis said: “Before the winter ends, we anticipate continued demand for our services. We just want to be there for people who are facing homelessness and try to bring joy and hope into people’s lives.

“The Salvation Army in Gloucester is grateful for our dedicated volunteers whose hard work in serving meals and fundraising is essential. Their contributions enable The Salvation Army to continue its mission of supporting those in need within the community.”

To learn more about the work being done by The Salvation Army or to support through donations or volunteering opportunities, visit www.salvationarmy.org.uk and search ‘Gloucester’.