An update on our work during these unprecedented times…

During each lockdown we’ve provided take away meals for the homeless and also delivered to those in emergency hotel accommodation or people needing to self-isolate.

We’ve also provided welfare support by phone.

Overall, we scaled up our work as other Oxford services temporarily closed. This means that the number of people we reach has increased from an average of 70 per day to as many as 200 people per day during lockdown.

The Porch is sometimes the only service to see people daily and that makes us well-placed to alert other services with an important role to play during lockdown.

Back in March 2020, The Porch…

– was the only emergency lunchtime food provider in Oxford
– has provided over 18,000 meals since the first lockdown
– made 4,508 telephone welfare calls over the first 3 months
– scaled-up to provide a service 7 days-a-week

Unfortunately, the winter/spring lockdown 2021, means we have had to suspend any indoor services including temporary shower and laundry facilities. We are now providing a lunchtime takeaway service from our door and delivering to five locations offering temporary accommodation.  

We would like to thank the local community for donations and our amazing team of volunteers that have helped us throughout this difficult time. Our work has only been possible with your generosity and commitment.