SWINDON Night Shelter launched two fund-raising schemes to ensure it can keep supporting rough sleepers on its 10th anniversary.

The charity began the Friends of Swindon Night Shelter initiative and a business sponsorship scheme to pay for its monthly bills.

Organiser Becky Davison said: “We are privileged to have helped others as part of this Christian-based organisation. We wish to continue this work so we need to become financially sustainable. These schemes will help us to do that.”

Swindon Night Shelter volunteers support five main projects around homelessness in the town: the Haven, the Hub, the Hive, the Shelter, and the Gate cafes.

Becky added: “A donation of £5 a month covers our internet costs for a month to support our guests with claims and accessing services online while they are with us. £10 a month more or less covers the cost of a TV licence so they can enjoy an activity most of us take for granted and £25 covers road tax for vans which take guests to appointments or to a shelter.”

Businesses around the town are also being asked to consider donating on a more consistent basis too. There are opportunities to become a main partner for £1,000 a month which covers the cost of food and utility bills.

Other opportunities include the chance to be an official business partner by donating £500 a month which pays the wages of a part-time donations coordinator.

Or become an official supplier who is able to offer a range of free or heavily discounted services or products including an electrician, book-keeper or accountant.

For more details, visit http://www.swindonnightshelter.uk or call 01793 613116 during office hours.