We provide support & development services for the homeless and disadvantaged within Northamptonshire
The Centre began in 1974 when Michael Mulligan started a free food handout for rough sleepers. This grew into the Northampton Soup Kitchen & finally developed into the Hope Centre, a Day Centre offering a wide range of services & practical support to Northampton's homeless. We still offer life's basics - hot meals, showers & clothes. We now also offer a range of life skills workshops & activities to improve our clients self esteem & social skills which enable them to move on.
Why the community needs usThe street homeless and vulnerably housed have ongoing complex needs including drug & alcohol dependency as well as a range of mental health issues.
The homeless community can initially appear to be quite intimidating and are often shunned by most people.
Due to the efforts made by our staff, volunteers and the clients themselves we ensure that they are aware of the impact that is made by inappropriate social behaviour and this will reduce any negative effects upon the wider community.
Our impact on the communityMany of our clients are now engaged in positive community activities. Some work on allotments - producing vegetables for use in meals at the Hope Centre. Others now act as client volunteers within our centre taking on tasks such as cooking, cleaning, reception & general building maintenance.
Others are now actively engaged in programs which reduce their dependence on alcohol, drugs & tobacco.
These approaches enable our clients to live a more positive & progressive lifestyle.
