As the weather turns colder and many of us celebrate seasonal and religious festivals, we often find our thoughts turning to people who are in less fortunate situations, such as those facing poverty or homelessness. A group of local volunteers have come together to launch SEVA Street, which will provide much-needed support on the streets this winter (and all year round)…
We first learnt about the important work that SEVA Street does via Avery Emerson solicitors with whom we meet each week at The Chigwell Business Group. Volunteers from Avery Emerson, along with other local residents, visit three locations every week and supply hot food, snacks and hot and cold drinks to anyone who needs them.
The premise of SEVA Street is simple but vitally important to those who run it and those who need it. In addition to accessing the basic provisions of food and drink, SEVA Street shows vulnerable and homeless local people that they are cared about by their community. Sometimes a friendly chat can mean just as much as a hot meal. Volunteers also have the opportunity to get to know vulnerable local people and signpost them to agencies that can offer them longer-term support.
Homelessness can happen to any of us and the most common causes are often things beyond our control such as family and relationship breakdowns, mental health issues and lack of affordable housing. Homelessness can also happen quickly – latest statistics suggest that most of us are just two steps away from it at any one time.
SEVA Street is planning to reach even more people by running an additional location in Hackney. But the group needs more funding to do so. The current total cost of food and drink each week is £225, adding up to £975 per month. Organisers are looking for any local businesses or individuals who may be able to contribute a little each month by direct debit to enable this work to expand over Christmas and into 2019.
If you think you might be able to help SEVA Street, either by donating or volunteering your time, please contact Chairman Sukhjit Ahluwalia at Sukhjit_Ahluwalia@ae-law.co.uk or on 020 8215 0884.
Thank you for taking the time to read this and we wish you a safe and happy winter,
All the team at Marcomedia x