Spring Newsletter
Welcome to our Spring Newsletter!
In this issue, we have a snapshot of the fantastic work our Winter Shelter has achieved since it returned at the end of last year, testimonies from young volunteers and fundraising updates.
Plus, save the date for our Sleepout 2025 – read on for more.
Sleepout 2025 - Save the Date
Our annual Sleepout returns this November!
Date: Saturday 15th November 2025
Location: Bromley Parish Church, Church Rd, BR2 0EG
Sign-ups aren’t open yet but please save the date and stay tuned for more details.
Swim Challenge with Rotary Beckenham
Calling all swimmers!
Whether you’re a pro or just starting out, we need your help swimming a cumulative marathon to raise funds for Bromley Homeless.
For more information, please contact Peter Braithwaite at 07757 058929 or peter.braithwaite45@gmail.com
Winter Shelter 2024 - 25
This winter marked our first year back running our emergency accommodation shelter, and the first in our new fixed location.
Since December, our Winter Shelter has run across 127 nights, powered by an amazing community of 99 volunteers who took on roles in our cooking, breakfast and overnight teams.
Together, the volunteers have delivered:
- 585 safe spaces for guests
- 585 hot dinners and breakfasts
- Over 1,700 hot drinks
- 17 weeks of laundered bedding and towels
- An estimated 4,648 volunteer hours
A huge thank you to everyone who has helped make this first season back a massive success – whether you cooked, stayed overnight, welcomed guests, or supported in other ways.
Everyone has made a real difference.
Young Volunteer Spotlight
This winter, we are privileged to have had volunteers from a wide range of ages, ethnicities and backgrounds.
We’ve asked three of our youngest volunteers to share a few words about their experiences.
Sam (19)
“I first started volunteering when my hours were cut at work so I had a lot more free time. I did different roles like cooking and staying overnight, the guests were always incredibly grateful and kind…
My advice to anyone thinking about helping, especially young people, if you’ve taken the time to read this to the end, just do it.
It’s a great experience, for young people it’s brilliant on a CV, definitely worth doing and I’m so happy I sent the email to start volunteering.”
Theo (17)
“I first started volunteering at the shelter to diversify my life experience and to help others less fortunate who face everyday challenges of homelessness which most of us can’t even imagine…
Now at Bromley Homeless I really feel like I’m helping members of the community from all different types of backgrounds who each have stories to express which I find fascinating to listen to.
I’m very grateful for the opportunity to help at the Homeless Shelter and encourage others to do the same. Thank you.”
Matthew (15)
“Before volunteering, I had a vague idea of homelessness—it was something I saw in the streets, but it always felt distant. I never truly understood the reality of how hard it is to survive when the temperatures drop below freezing, and how vital places like shelters are…
Arriving at the shelter, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I assumed it would be just another busy place where people come for a meal and a bed for the night. But the people I met were so much more than their circumstances—they were human beings with stories, hopes, and dreams.
Volunteering at the Winter Shelter has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of school and activities, but taking time to give back has taught me the importance of community and gratitude.
The best part? You don’t need to be a superhero to make a big difference. Small acts of kindness go along way.”
Fundraising Heroes
Mark’s Marathon
Mark, our marathon runner, is busy putting the miles in as he aims for a personal best at the London Marathon in April.
He is going great guns and so far has raised over £2,000!
If you would like to help, please visit his fundraising page.
Caroline’s Quiz Night
A massive thank you to Caroline and everyone who attended her quiz night.
Together you helped raise an incredible £1,046 in support of our work!
Voices from Bromley Homeless
Martyn Travers – Our Chaplain
In this short video, Martyn shares what it means to be our chaplain and how he supports guests and the wider team.
Charlie – Our Treasurer
Caroline’s Quiz Night, Charlie shared a great overview of Bromley Homeless and why our work matters.
Could Your Company Support Us?
Do you work for, own, or know a company that could support Bromley Homeless?
Corporate sponsorships help us expand our impact and sustain vital services.
If your workplace might be interested, we’d love to hear from you – info@bromleyhomeless.org