CAMPAIGN: ARK Horsham enters last week in church home

There has been a final plea of desperation from people receiving help from ARK Horsham as the charity enters its last week of having a home.
By Anna Coe
Published 26th Aug 2015, 13:50 BST

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County Times campaign: ARK Horsham homelessness charity needs a new home. Pic Steve RobardsCounty Times campaign: ARK Horsham homelessness charity needs a new home. Pic Steve Robards
County Times campaign: ARK Horsham homelessness charity needs a new home. Pic Steve Robards

On September 4 the charity will lose its home at Horsham United Reformed Church after five years there leaving a gap in support for the many people who visit there.

Three times a week, ARK provides a drop-in service, which has been described in the past few weeks as a lifeline by the many people who use it.

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On Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays volunteers can see up to 40 people come in for help with drug addictions, unemployment issues, housing problems or just a listening ear.

Home for the ARKHome for the ARK
Home for the ARK

Robert Stones, who has received help there for four years, said: “I’m not ashamed to say that I am a gambler and ARK has helped me a lot with my problem. Through ARK I have received regular meals. Also, through ARK other people who have problems like alcohol and drugs. If there is any help ARK can provide, they will.”

Trevor said: “ARK saved my life. If I hadn’t found the ARK, I wouldn’t be here today.”

The charity also provides food bags, clothes, fresh fruit and vegetables to people in need. Their work has helped build people’s self esteem and enabled people to move on from life controlling issues.

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Former homeless man ‘J’ said: “The ARK has assisted me from the streets to getting my own flat and changing my life for the better.”

Lisa Price added: “It’s a place you are welcome no matter the circumstances. The ARK family members have given me the confidence and self belief to become a volunteer myself.”

West Sussex County Council and Horsham District Council are working with ARK and other charities to help plug the gap.

Any business, group or individual who can provide a temporary or permanent home can call the charity’s founder Lisa Burrell on 07825 284054. The charity is also looking for financial help it to secure a lease or mortgage for a new base. For details go to www.thearkhorsham.org.uk

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