King’s Lynn Night Shelter opening marks milestone

The King’s Lynn Night Shelter has recently reopened with the news that St John’s House will now be open to guests all year round. Established by Churches Together in King’s Lynn, the shelter started as a pilot project offering camp beds two nights a week during the winter of 2017-18. Originally, guests were only welcomed overnight, but after the first lockdown in 2020, the shelter transitioned to a 24/7 service. This year, after planning and fundraising efforts, the shelter reopened and will remain open year-round, providing crucial support to vulnerable individuals.

The Night Shelter director, Lucy McKitterick, highlighted the challenges faced by the shelter in supporting homeless individuals in a post-Covid world. Despite accommodating 32 guests out of 109 referrals, the shelter continues to push forward with plans for development work to meet the overwhelming need for assistance. Securing funding to stay open year-round is a significant achievement for the shelter, which relies heavily on grant funding, donations, and fundraising events. Additional building developments are planned to increase capacity and financial sustainability, with a second phase extension set to begin once fundraising goals are met.

The Night Shelter currently operates without national or local government funding, relying on a combination of Housing Benefits, grants, donations, and fundraising events to sustain its operations. The shelter’s fundraising team organizes various events throughout the year, with donations from individuals and groups constituting a significant portion of their income. Despite the support received, the shelter acknowledges the ongoing need for assistance, especially highlighted by the alarming statistics on the life expectancy of individuals experiencing homelessness in the UK.

With around 60 volunteers supporting the staff team, the Night Shelter expresses gratitude to all those who contribute to their work, including benefactors, volunteers, staff, trustees, and partnering organizations. As winter approaches, the shelter continues to offer crucial support to those in need, providing meals, shelter, and care to vulnerable individuals. The Chair of Trustees extends thanks to all who support the shelter financially, through prayer, and volunteering time, emphasizing the importance of community support in helping those experiencing homelessness. The Night Shelter encourages further involvement through donations, volunteering, or following their work on their website or social media platforms.