"More than 1,400 specialist rucksacks, designed to be "a symbol of dignity to rough sleepers", will be distributed to London's homeless population this festive season. The rucksacks, named CITYPAK, include features such as a waterproof poncho and reflective safety elements. Bags were handed out at St Martin-in-the-Fields, on the edge of Trafalgar Square, via The Connection, a London homeless charity that supports "hundreds of people sleeping rough every day"."
"Homelessness is on the rise in London, with more than 13,000 people seen sleeping rough by outreach workers in the 20242025 count the highest number ever recorded by Combined Homelessness and Information Network. PA/CITYPAK Director Carrie Lombardi said: "It's just a backpack, so it doesn't solve the problem of homelessness. "But what we've learned from passing them out is that it is a practical resource and an opportunity to connect with our unhoused neighbours and bring them into these amazing organisations around the city.""
"Michael Bird, who continues to be supported by The Connection, said: "Back in 2022 I had a few issues like mental health and drinking and drugs, which I was using to self-medicate. "Things fell apart where I was living, so I came to London and to go it was really scary. "I didn't know what I was doing. I didn't have a sleeping bag." Individuals with previous experience on the street directed him to organisations providing support, like The Connection, where he could get showers, food and accommodation."
More than 1,400 specialist CITYPAK rucksacks are being distributed to London's homeless population during the festive season. Each rucksack contains essentials such as a waterproof poncho, reflective safety elements and warm clothing, and is intended as a symbol of dignity. Distribution took place at St Martin-in-the-Fields via The Connection charity, which provides showers, food and accommodation support to hundreds sleeping rough daily. Outreach workers recorded more than 13,000 people sleeping rough in the 20242025 count, the highest number recorded by the Combined Homelessness and Information Network. Durable rucksacks offer practical protection from weather and a connection point to support services.
Read at www.bbc.com
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