It’s only been three days since the Isle of Wight Bus Shelter – a converted double-decker bus that offers a bed for night to the Island’s homeless – was launched.
In that time the Bus Shelter has had nine guests. Nine individuals who have had a warm, dry bed for the night, been fed (meals provided by the wonderful people at Apsire) and able to eat from a plate with a knife and fork, as well as being given some dignity and care.
Interest from far and wide
Kevin Newton, the brainchild of the initiative, reports that several councils and other homeless charities have already been in touch to ask how they can copy the model.
As he says on Facebook, “What a coup for the Island”.
Volunteers needed
Kevin is appealing for volunteers to help sustain the service. He says,
“To keep this valuable resource running we are dependent on volunteer staff and donations. It’s difficult to explain what the role consists of, but you would be a friend with purpose.
“Our volunteers are facilitators and work with our guests to allow them to move forward. This can start with simple verbal interaction about issues that are not homeless related.
“You are never on duty alone and any necessary training will be given.”
He went on to add some thanks,
“I must say a massive thank you to our initial core group of volunteers especially Graham Hall who have stepped up to fill gaps left by people who offered to help but changed their mind.
“We don’t want our guests to go back on the streets and I personally haven’t been home yet since Monday and not due to see my family until next Monday. It’s hard but I don’t want to fail these people.”
Get involved
If you would like to be part of this innovative project and can commit to a shift each week or for the next couple of weeks, then please get in touch with Kevin, either via the Bus Shelter Facebook Page or through Bus Shelter Website.
The shifts are 9am -2pm, 2pm -7pm and 7pm-11pm sleeping overnight.
If you can offer practical help but would like to make a donation, you can do so via the
Bus Shelter Paypal account.
