A charity is urgently seeking help to support people sleeping rough in Reading.
The Way Ministry is appealing for access to an empty building in the town to use as a night shelter.
The boss of the charity has said the recent deaths of rough sleepers Kepha Otundo and Genevieve Curwen have highlighted the urgent need for safe, overnight accommodation in the area.
Grace Gomez from The Way Ministry Reading said: “I have seen so many people in the town centre sleeping on the ground, and there are many more living in tent encampments away from the town centre.
“We are seeing firsthand the desperation people are facing.
“No one should be left without a safe place to sleep in this day and age.
“We are urgently asking for support from property owners, organisations, or the local community who may be able to help us secure a suitable building.
“A night shelter provides not just a safe place to sleep, but a vital lifeline for people experiencing homelessness.
“It offers protection from the elements, reduces the risks associated with rough sleeping, and supports both physical and mental wellbeing.
“Importantly, it also creates an opportunity for individuals to access further support and begin the journey towards more stable, long-term accommodation.”
The charity has received multiple calls in recent days from individuals in crisis.
It is seeking a vacant or underused property or warehouse in Reading, either on a temporary or long-term basis, to provide a safe and supportive environment for users.
The building would be used to provide a safe and supportive environment for those in need.
The charity says it can offer a low or peppercorn rent, making the arrangement practical for property owners looking to help the community.
Anyone who may be able to assist, or who would like more information, is encouraged to get in touch using the contact details on The Way Ministry website.
Mrs Gomez has been campaigning for 13 years to establish a permanent night shelter in Reading.
The Way Ministry ran a shelter in December 2023, with Faith Christian Group running a ‘Bed for a Night’ scheme from Jan 2024 to March 2024.
Mrs Gomez was seeking to open a permanent night shelter that year, but was unable to due to circumstances outside of her control.
The campaign has received added impetus this year following the tragic deaths of rough sleepers Mr Otundo on January 7 and Ms Curwen on February 26.
Matt Yeo (Labour, Caversham), lead councillor for housing on Reading Borough Council, said the council was following national best practice by focusing on Housing First and other targeted accommodation for vulnerable people, rather than opening a new permanent communal night shelter.
