Homelessness is rising. As of March 2025, 131,140 households were in temporary accommodation – an 12% increase from the previous year. Behind the statistics are people struggling with insecure housing, debt, mental health challenges, and addiction.

On 10th October 2025, people around the world will celebrate World Homeless Day, while working to prevent and end homelessness and alleviate the suffering of those experiencing it. Bury Drop In provides a safe, welcoming space every Tuesday and Friday for people who are homeless or vulnerably housed. Each week, over 50 guests join us for a nutritious homecooked meal, practical support, and signposting to vital services. Over the year, we have supported over 400 people with housing, health and addiction issues.

By the time individuals have received support from Bury Drop In, they have often suffered significant trauma. Here is a real story – guest A: from crisis to recovery:

After a difficult childhood marked by parental separation and a mother’s alcohol addiction, A left school without qualifications. Despite these early challenges, A built a successful career in print management, had a home and a family. But a series of devastating events—including the breakdown of a marriage and the death of a child—led to homelessness and alcohol misuse as a way to cope. Now, three years on, A is in temporary accommodation and regularly attends Bury Drop In. With support from our volunteers and partner agencies—including the NHS outreach team and West Suffolk Rough Sleeper Service—A began the journey to recovery. A has recently secured a place on a 7-day supported detox programme and is already seeing improvements in health and wellbeing.

“The volunteers are kind, always ask how I’m doing, and the food and vouchers helped me survive. But most of all, it’s the support to connect with services that has made the difference.”

This World Homeless Day, will you stand with us to support those most at risk in our community? For more information and to donate, visit our donate webpage.