A homelessness charity is thanking members of the public for their generosity during last year.

Graih assists those who are either homeless or living in insecure accommodation, offering a daytime drop-in, overnight shelter and community visiting at their base on Broadway in Douglas.

They said they were flooded with donations of money and food over Christmas and New Year from individuals, businesses, schools, churches and community groups.

Throughout the first lockdown, and during the current restrictions, Graih’s drop-in had to close but the shelter remains open throughout the night seven days a week.

The charity works closely with adult social services and other third-sector partners to maintain support for the most vulnerable in the community.

Manager of Graih, Erica Irwin said: ’In 2020 we provided more than 4,200 meals through the drop-in.

’Our shelter provided 524 bed spaces to those needing accommodation. We had contact with 291 different individuals through the course of the year. Unfortunately these numbers show that the needs of those who are homeless are still there on the edges of our society.

’Those on the margins often feel forgotten and unloved but this generosity shows that people are thinking of others, even in such a difficult time for us all. We are so grateful and just want to say a huge thank you to everyone who donated and helped support us.’

More information about Graih can be found at www.graih.org.im