Stephen Metcalfe, MP for
South Basildon and East Thurrock, recently visited Basildon based Project 58:7
and pitched in with their work helping the homeless.
Run by volunteers from 10
churches in Basildon, Project 58:7 works to implement the words in Isaiah
Chapter 58 verse 7 which encourages the
sharing of food, the provision of shelter and clothes, and urges the reader not
to turn away from those in need.
Working in partnership
with a number of local agencies including Basildon Citizens Advice and Bureau
and Basildon Community Resource Centre, the project provides invaluable
assistance to the homeless through the provision of hot meals and drinks,
prayer, clothing, sleeping bags, and signposting to other agencies who may be
of help. Last year alone they provided 3,200 meals to rough sleepers.
Mr Metcalfe commented:
“Homelessness is something I have worked on in the past so It was a real
privilege to visit Project 58:7 and to pitch in with serving food. The
volunteers work selflessly to provide for others and in doing so demonstrate
the crucial role that local churches can play in our communities.”
“I would like to thank all
involved in running this service and whilst I obviously wish there was no need
for it, I look forward to supporting their work in any way I can.”
