Birkenhead charity The Ark help homeless people back into society

Oct 15 2008 by Carrie Catterall, Birkenhead News

bob jarvis

LIFE-CHANGING work is taking place at The Ark in Birkenhead as volunteers lead homeless people back into society.

The project, which started in 1992, has shown the light to thousands of people who, because of circumstances, found themselves without a home.

But thanks to a 25-bed direct access hostel on Sandford Street and six ‘move-on’ houses, 58% of their previously homeless residents are now back in the mainstream community.

The Ark’s plans for an extension on their hostel are moving forward and they will soon have even more facilities to help get people back on their feet.

Ark worker Bob Jarvis, 61, of Heswall, said: “As a Christian, I decided in 1995 that it was time to stop praying and start doing.

“I started working on Friday nights at The Ark and after a few years I took up a full-time post.

“I have realised that the people we deal with are not a breed apart from everyone else - they have just lost their way and something has gone wrong.

“We are trying a softer more friendly approach of late which is going down really well.

“People seem to feel safer if we are less formal and institutional.

“It is hard sometimes not to get emotionally involved and it is really great when you see the benefits The Ark is having on people’s lives - without it, Birkenhead would be a poorer place.”

The good work of The Ark is supported by many people, churches and societies, with both material and cash donations.

A fundraising concert for The Ark will take place at the Williamson Art Gallery, Birkenhead, on October 23. For tickets, costing £5, call 650 6857.

For more information visit www.wirralark.org.uk