Providence Row exists to support people affected by homelessness who are most vulnerable and least likely to access services elsewhere. We have been in operation since 1860 and we know that for a lot of our clients Providence Row is the only community they have and a life-saving resource.
During the current COVID-19 pandemic, people who are homeless or vulnerably housed are even more vulnerable. They cannot self-isolate, often do not have any way to wash their hands and stay clean and will struggle to access information, advice and guidance. Many of the people we support have complex needs that can reduce their capacity to seek help and pre-existing health conditions that put them at particular risk from contracting the coronavirus. With very limited support available elsewhere, our clients need us now more than ever.
*APPEAL UPDATE*
During the COVID-19 pandemic, we have adapted our services primarily to serve the immediate needs of rough sleepers whilst maintaining support for clients vulnerable to homelessness. We are doing everything we can to support them and keep them safe during this challenging time.
This includes:
- Frontline staff placing clients who are rough-sleeping in supported housing across East London
- Providing specialist, 24/7 support for rough sleepers based in hotels to ensure they can self-isolate, receive regular meals, and have their health and wellbeing needs met
- Continuing our outreach service for people with substance misuse issues ensuring access to prescription medication, and advice and support for long term recover
- A telephone psychotherapy service which is a lifeline for many who are distressed and traumatised and particularly vulnerable at this time
- Daily telephone support for residents in hostels who cannot attend our support groups during the lockdown, ensuring they have food and providing them with weekly wellbeing packs
We urgently need funds to continue providing our life saving services in the coming weeks and after the pandemic. Unfortunately, COVID-19 has put our very existence under threat.