Argos Shorehead (Inside Sainsbury's)

Our practical, short-term support is here for local people who are in crisis. We offer basic essentials such as food, toiletries, warm and bedding - plus a listening ear and information about where to get further help. People are in real need in Huddersfield - every week people are going hungry because they haven’t enough money to make ends meet. They face impossible choices between eating and heating, feeding their children or paying the rent. A recent client felt that “the centre was so helpful - I was given a food parcel, which was a massive relief as I had absolutely nowhere else to go.” Here's how we work. Individuals, local groups, schools, businesses and faith organisations donate food, household goods and money to us. Our volunteers then make up emergency packs which are handed directly to people in need. Food packs contain enough food for 7 days. People can also come to us for toiletries like soap and toothpaste and household items such as pots, pans, cutlery, bedding and towels. So who do we help? Local families and people in dire need. Maybe someone's lost their job and bills have taken all their cash. Or a young mum moving out to get her kids away from a violent partner. Job loss, debt, eviction, homelessness, violence, benefit problems, drug, alcohol or mental or physical health issues can all play their part in triggering a crisis. People can only receive our help if they have been referred to us by organisations such as Job Centre Plus, Mental Health Services, GPs or Social Services. We work with local agencies to help clients find the ongoing support they need. Our help is short-term and limited. We create a breathing space for people in need and aim to stop a crisis turning into a tragedy. We are a small, determined and efficient charity. We employ a few core staff who work with a team of around 120 volunteers. The Welcome Centre is managed by a Board of Trustees. We have a three-year plan to ensure we deliver an inclusive high-quality service. We rely on local donors, support from businesses, fundraising events and grant applications to keep going. We receive some support from the council to help meet the increasing demand for our service, but demand is continuing to rise. Thank you for your support!