Two charities dedicated to helping the homeless in Telford are facing the challenges of an economic "perfect storm." Stay and Maninplace, both based in Telford, have reported significant

increases in the cost of living, coupled with a drop in support.

Over the past year, food donations to these charities have dwindled by over half, and cash support has decreased by 40%. At the same time, they are experiencing a surge in demand for their services as more people face eviction and homelessness.

The strain on these charities is becoming increasingly challenging. Mike Holt, the executive director of Maninplace, emphasized the difficulty they face in providing quality food parcels due to a shortage of various essential products.

"We've got some tinned vegetables, we've got potatoes. But there are no ready meals, we're lacking on ready-made pasta bags, we have two boxes of cereal left," he explained.

To address their immediate needs and raise essential funds, the two charities are coming together for the Telford Big Sleep Out, a sponsored event scheduled for November 17. During this event, participants will be challenged to "make a box your home for the night."

Kay Bennett, Stay's marketing manager, stressed the critical importance of the funds raised through the sleep-out event, especially in light of the current economic climate and declining donations.

"With donations on the decline," she explained, "the impact of rising costs has become even greater. There's been a huge increase in the cost of essential food and emergency supplies provided by the outreach teams, such as tents, sleeping bags, hats, and scarves."

Mr. Holt expressed his concern about the constraints placed on Maninplace's work due to financial limitations but highlighted their unwavering commitment to helping those in dire need.

"We're still here, responding every day, planting seeds of hope for people when they come at their most desperate," he added. Photo by Simon Hark, Wikimedia commons.