Homeless people from Rochdale will be given a free hot meal, a mince pie and a drink, some warm clothing and a free haircut at a special event taking place at Rochdale Infirmary in the run up to Christmas.
They will also be able to get a covid and flu vaccination and free healthcare and housing advice. Christmas gift boxes will also be given out to spread some festive cheer.
The event is taking place on Wednesday 8 December, 5pm to 7.30pm, at Rochdale Infirmary, and all homeless people from the area are welcome to attend and should come to the Outpatients entrance.
Jackie Heatley, Interim Divisional Director of Nursing/AHP at Rochdale Care Organisation, said:
“We look forward to welcoming the homeless to our special festive event in December. This is an annual event for the homeless and is usually very well attended, which is fantastic, as they can really benefit from the advice and support being offered. It is great to be able to make a positive difference to people in need, especially in the run up to Christmas.
“Anyone who would like to donate any warm clothing toiletries or personal items for the homeless should drop them off at our main entrance reception desk at Rochdale Infirmary.”
Homeless people who attend the event will be offered:
- Hot food and drinks including mince pies
- Christmas gift boxes, toiletries, and personal items
- Advice from the Drugs and Alcohol Team
- Housing advice
- Podiatry and tissue viability advice
- Hair cuts
- Covid and flu vaccinations
The Mayor of Rochdale, Councillor Aasim Rashid, will be attending, along with Rochdale Care Organisation Chief Officer Steve Taylor, and the senior management team, to show their support and speak with attendees, staff and volunteers.
This event is fully funded through charitable support from the hospital workforce and local community.
Any items that are left over after the event will be donated to homeless people and homeless charities.
Local people and NHS staff who would like to show their support can do so by donating outdoor coats, warm socks, hats, scarves, gloves, toiletries and personal items for the homeless. The drop off point is at Rochdale Infirmary main entrance reception desk.
Please contact Jackie Heatley or Jennie Curran on 01706 517202 for enquiries relating to the homeless event.