Who We Are...

HARP (Homeless Action Resource Project) is a new and progressive charity combining the services of the former Southend Centre for the Homeless and Southend Night Shelter for the Homeless. This exciting and innovative venture offers a broad range of services aimed at tackling the issues facing Southend's homeless.

Our main objectives are to provide homeless people with help and advice in securing accommodation, and to alleviate homelessness through the provision of short-term emergency accommodation. We do this in conjunction with other statutory and non-statutory agencies such as Southend-on- Sea Borough Council, Social Services and the Citizens Advice Bureau.

We operate an 'open door" policy. Regardless of race, age, gender, religion or sexual orientation, we aim to provide a caring, comfortable and identified environment and opportunities to secure permanent accommodation and new beginnings.

Our service is run by paid staff with the support of volunteers and a major source of our funding comes from Southend-on-Sea Borough Council, various grants and trusts. We also enjoy continuous support from local churches, organisations and individuals in the form of donated goods and money.

We operate from two sites. Our Day Service at Valkyrie Road hosts a range of advisory and support services for families and people in temporary and emergency accommodation. Our Night Service at York Road provides short-term emergency accommodation. Like the centre at Valkyrie Road, it also facilitates a variety of services - some for guests of our York Road service, and some for service users in general.