Shoebox campaign launched as homeless face hostel crisis

Earlier this week the Yorkshire Post reported that despite extra beds, hostels in the city were so full they were turning people away.

One hostel which was supposed to close, Dock House on St Peter’s Street, has had to reopen.

Hull West and Hessle MP Alan Johnson and North Hull MP Diana Johnson, who are patrons of homeless charity Emmaus Hull, will launch the scheme tomorrow, asking people to put together a shoebox including things like underwear, gloves and hat and soap and toothbrushes.

Ms Johnson said: “It’s the toughest time of year for those without a roof over their head. With homelessness and rough sleeping so tragically on the rise again, the efforts of Emmaus Hull with their Shoebox campaign should be backed to the hilt.”

Mr Johnson added: “Sadly, homelessness affects individuals all year round and this is one way in which everyone can help by donating items – many of which we all take for granted, such as a pair of socks”.

So far £2m has been raised towards a new £3m Emmaus community in the city. A group headed by former council leader Pat Doyle has been working for four years on the scheme which will provide beds and jobs for 30 people. They have been gifted land by Hull Council on Lockwood Street, in the Wincolmlee area of the city, close to Barmston Drain.

Donations of items or shoeboxes can be handed in 193 Newland Avenue.

People can also collect an empty shoebox donated by Pavers of Hornsea Freeport to fill.