There has been a rising number of young people using the Harrogate Homeless Project and the hostel is now at full capacity.
Rising number of homeless young peoples sees Harrogate hostel reach full capacity There has been a rising number of young people using the Harrogate Homeless Project and the hostel is now at full capacity. Harrogate Homeless Project provides a safe place for people experiencing homelessness in the Harrogate district to stay. The charity operates a day centre, supporting people experiencing homelessness with day-to-day care and emergency overnight accommodation in the form of a 16-bed hostel. But that hostel is now at capacity due to a rising number of young people who find themselves homeless. In response, the charity has launched a number of fundraising initiatives to meeting growing demand, including a fun run, photography competition, and Three Peak challenge. Francis McAllister, CEO of the Harrogate Homeless project, said:
“The challenges around cost-of-living has highlighted the urgency for more resources to continue our critical work. "All our hostel beds are full, and we have seen increasingly younger individuals and women seeking our help.”Rising rents and persistent inflation have increased the risk for people becoming homeless, as well as being a barrier to those trying to exit homelessness. Across the UK, there was a 26% increase in people sleeping rough in 2022, the biggest year-on-year rise since 2015. In the same year, Harrogate Borough Council revealed a 60% increase in requests for housing help. Francis added:
“Since the pandemic, it’s gone from one crisis to another as many households struggle with housing insecurity. Every penny raised will make a lasting impact for someone in need.”Fundraising events On Saturday (15th July), there will be a Charity Fun Run across the Stray. The charity is also hosing a virtual 5 or 10K run on the day of your choosing throughout September, with a £10 donation to enter. The event is sponsored by Up and Running. The charity is also calling for corporate organisations, clubs and associations to take on the Yorkshire Three Peak Challenge, which will take place on 16th September 2023, at £50 per entry. Francis said:
“These events, organised by staff and volunteers, offer an opportunity for Harrogate to come together, show compassion, and make a lasting impact on the lives of those in need.”Donations will help provide basic essentials, such as a clean warm bed, a hot meal, a shower and access to laundry facilities, haircuts, and GP services for vulnerable adults in Harrogate. For more information, sponsorship opportunities, or to get involved, contact: Thomas Richards, thomas@hhphostel.org 01423 525 384 Read more local stories from Your Harrogate here.