As part of Community’s campaign to end veteran homelessness, Community’s Welsh Regional Office organised a drive for items that homeless veterans need. The region coordinated the donations for veterans of hundreds of items including toiletries like toothpaste and toothbrushes as well as warm clothing in preparation for the winter months.
The donations were given to Alabare charity for distribution to homeless and vulnerable veterans. Alabare provide dedicated support to veterans across the South of England and in Wales. Each night, their ‘Homes for Veterans’ project keeps over 100 veterans from sleeping rough.
Megan Edwards, Assistant Organiser for Community Wales Region, said:
“Veterans across the country are struggling without the things they need to survive. We know that local councils and charities have had their resources stretched to the limit by government cuts and then this pandemic. So our regional office, along with our members, has come together to donate hundreds of items that veterans need.”
“We know that the winter months are particularly difficult for homeless people. Our veterans deserve a place they can call home, but while we and many other are working to secure stable and decent housing for veterans, we want to ensure that those who have fallen through the cracks can stay warm this coming winter.”
“While our campaign is working more broadly to ensure that no veteran is left on the streets without a place to call home, there are many who slip through cracks in support. Alabare have told us that those veterans who are using their emergency accommodation this winter will appreciate the donations our members made.”
“I want to thank all of our members across Wales who brought in donations and gave generously.”
Rob Edwards, Regional Secretary for Community Wales Region, said:
“Megan has worked hard to find and establish an important link with an organisation whose values complement those of Community. Due to her efforts we now have crucial support for the Union’s Veteran Homeless Campaign.”
Find out more about Alabare here.
Community has been campaigning to end veteran homelessness. Find out more about Community’s ending veteran homelessness campaign here.
If you are a member of Community and need help or advice, please contact us at servicecentre@community-tu.org or on 0800 389 6332.
To join Community, visit here.
© Community Trade Union 2024