Hinckley United Reformed Church Partners with Charity to Open Home for Homeless Individuals

Members of Hinckley United Reformed Church in the East Midlands Synod have taken a significant step in addressing homelessness by partnering with the charity Hope into Action (HIA) to provide a permanent home for two individuals experiencing homelessness. This initiative marks the first such effort by a United Reformed Church in the UK.

The collaboration began when Karen Jones, a former Elder at the church, attended a concert in Norwich that raised funds for HIA. Impressed by the charity’s approach, which integrates tenants into their own success, she sought to bring similar efforts to her local congregation. HIA operates on the principle that the Church can respond to three forms of poverty: resources, relationships, and identity.

HIA works by sourcing investors to purchase properties, which are leased to the charity for five years. The charity then transforms these properties into homes and partners with churches to offer prayer, friendship, and community support. Tenants are required to pay rent and adhere to agreements, with the possibility of returning to the streets if breaches occur, though they may reapply for housing.

Karen noted that the tenants face various challenges, including financial difficulties, family issues, illness, mental health struggles, and substance abuse. A key worker visits weekly to assist tenants in developing the skills needed for independent living. Hinckley URC chose to furnish the home and provide friendship and a support group for the tenants.

Initially, Karen attempted to engage her church in Norwich, but the effort was unsuccessful. She later moved to the Midlands and began attending Hinckley URC. Inspired by a guest speaker who discussed churches opening their doors to the homeless, Karen spoke to the church secretary, Tony Wallace, about the project. Despite his efforts, progress was slow, and he eventually asked Karen to take the lead shortly before his passing.

The church’s initiative reflects a commitment to caring for the vulnerable, echoing the biblical call to protect the marginalized. Proverbs 31:8-9 reminds us to speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, a principle that aligns with the church’s efforts to provide tangible support and community for the homeless.

Source: Read the original report