Call for donations to help Coventry's rough sleepers

A drop-in centre for rough sleepers is appealing for support after a fall in donations.

Steps for Change provides a warm space, advice and free, second-hand clothes from its base in Coventry's City Arcade.

Volunteers said it was in need of warm winter coats, scarfs, gloves, underwear and any other clothing in good condition - as well as Christmas gifts.

The site was said to be "really short" on goods.

The centre works with the city council, Langar Aid, the Salvation Army and ARC, which offers support and advice around addiction.

ARC's Louise Morley said the group sought to fill shoeboxes with items such as chocolates and toiletries, which it gave as gifts to people who may otherwise not receive any.

This time last year, she said there were about 100 shoeboxes but this year she would struggle to fill 10.

Goods, she explained, could be brought to the centre, or people could alternatively make a monetary donation to cover the cost of items.

"Everybody is struggling at the moment, the price of food and energy have absolutely gone through the roof," she said.

"But if you can spare even a little bit it will make a massive difference to people's lives."

She added she believed "a lot of charities were struggling to get donations" this winter.

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