As an extension of Octobers pledge to support Taunton Foodbank, for our November commitment we wanted to continue to support the local community in a way that could continue to help mitigate the impact of the current cost of living crisis on the most vulnerable in the area, as well as provide support for individuals whom find this time of year particularly challenging due to their personal circumstances.
With this in mind our support naturally progressed towards those living within Taunton’s homeless community. With the change in seasons and the colder weather approaching, the help sought from initiatives such as Open Door is ever increasing. We appreciate that at this time of year life can get even tougher for the homeless community, which is why we thought it perfect timing to branch out and see what we could do to help.
Open Door is a day centre for Taunton’s homeless community, where firstly those in need can receive a warm welcome, a smile and a cup of tea. Furthermore, they work with people to help them meet their basic needs such as providing food and drink, facilities for washing or showering, providing clothing and helping with laundering items, all with the aim of helping to increase people’s self-esteem and giving them a positive sense of belonging. Furthermore Open Door also offer tailored plans for individuals targeting key goals such as developing life skills, sustaining accommodation and accessing employment which can be instrumental for breaking the cycle of homelessness. Open Door is staffed by a team of 3 employees and over 45 volunteers!
On the back of the above, we have pledged to donate 120 items to Taunton Open Door, such as gloves, socks, hats, sleeping bags among other things, in the hope that our contributions will make a difference to those living in the homeless community and prepare them for the approaching colder season.
Support worker, Emma, on behalf of Taunton Open Door said “Open Door is so grateful for the support from AC Mole in thinking of us and putting together this amazing campaign for 120 items! Our clients rely on the work we do at our centre to help them with their journeys. Many have mental health problems and addictions so providing them with clothing, laundry, a warm meal, food to take away, emotional and practical support is made so much easier with the help we receive”.
If you would like to know more, please visit their website on the link below.
Taunton Open Door
https://www.tauntonopendoor.org.uk/
Similarly if you know of anyone who could benefit from the services that Open Door provide, please see the website or pay them a visit (1A Mount Street, Taunton, TA1 3QB) Monday to Friday between 9:00am and 3:00pm for more information and to access their support.
