About us
Providence Row - Supporting people experiencing homelessness since 1860
We are a charity based in East London tackling the root causes of homelessness to help people get off, and stay off, the streets, offering: Crisis Support, Advice and Recovery/Training Programs.
“Our mission is to support and accompany more people who are in crisis, homeless or at risk of homelessness on their journey to recovery, especially those who are most vulnerable and least likely to access services elsewhere.”
We will work with people, whatever their background, to help them to an independent and fulfilled life away from homelessness and exclusion, in which they are contributing members of the community.
This means that we will address not only their immediate needs, but also the underlying issues and causes of their homelessness and exclusion.
Why is Providence Row unique?
Providence Row stands out for its unwavering commitment to providing holistic care and support to the most vulnerable members of our community. Here's what sets Providence Row apart:
Landmark Day Centre: With over 160 years of history, Providence Row's day centre serves as a beacon of hope and support for those in need. It's a vital hub where individuals receive compassionate care and access to essential resources.
Comprehensive Support: Providence Row doesn't shy away from the most complex cases. They work tirelessly with individuals from the moment of crisis to their full recovery, even if it takes years. Their dedication ensures that no one falls through the cracks.
Innovative Outreach Services: Providence Row's outreach services are unparalleled, breaking down barriers to access critical support. Whether it's delivering care to someone's doorstep or meeting them where they are, they ensure no one is left behind, even if a bench is their only home.
Award-Winning Training Programmes: Providence Row's training programmes are not just about providing skills; they're about empowering individuals to take their first steps towards independence, employment, and a fulfilling life. Their efforts have earned recognition for their effectiveness and impact.
Tailored Support for Women: Recognising the unique challenges faced by women experiencing homelessness, Providence Row offers safe, confidential, and targeted support specifically designed to meet their needs. This specialised care ensures that women on the streets receive the assistance and resources necessary to rebuild their lives with dignity and security.
THE LOCAL PICTURE
The latest report by the CHAIN Homeless Database shows that a total of 10,053 people were recorded sleeping rough in London in 2022/23, a 21% increase on the previous year, so we’re experiencing an increase in clients in need of our services.
· Last year 1,578 people returned to rough sleeping after time off the streets, this is the highest number in 5 years
· Tower Hamlets has had the second highest rise in homelessness across all London boroughs and is at the highest it has been in the last 4 years
· Annual increase in rough sleeping in Tower Hamlet is 55%, over double the wider London increase.
OUR VISION
We are working towards a vision where everyone has a safe home and a community in which to belong.
· Empowerment
· Justice
· Inclusiveness
· Compassion
· Respect
WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR THE CITY YOU WORK IN?
Providence Row is active across the community that you work in; your home from home.
Not only do we work actively with the extremely vulnerable and homeless but our services are are open to City professionals who are at the threat of homelessness, have mental health issues or have been trouble by alcohol or substance misuse.
If you pass a homeless person when out for a sandwich or to the pub after work, it is extremely likely that they will have:
· Visited our centre and have received a hot meal or shower
· Been offered access to one of our services or is actively using one to start their journey toward recovery
· Met with an outreach psychotherapists or counsellor to start the building of trust required to move forward toward recovery
· Used our needle exchange
· Attended our health and well-being fairs and accessed critical health care and services
· Been cared for in crisis and when they need it most.
HOW CAN YOU HELP?
ü Corporate Donations – All donation have a designated number of volunteer opportunities attached for lunch and garden challenges
ü Lunch and Garden Challenges – Paid volunteering challenges (Lunch Team of Four, Garden Team of Two)
ü Service Sponsorship – Sponsor our garden accreditation program or Employability Training Scheme. Full list of sponsorship opportunities available)
ü Internal Fundraising and Challenges – Bakes, Quizzes, Sleep Outs, Cycles, Footy Matches – you decide
ü Payroll giving – Join our One Meal Deal A Month £4.50 Campaign – Easy, frictionless giving
ü Donate your Staff Goodies – Donate unused tokens, vouchers or other goodies to Providence Row
