Homelessness prevention initiative raises £100,000 to support city’s vulnerable

TAP for Bristol, the UK’s pioneering contactless donation system aimed at funding homelessness prevention and emergency support, has marked its fourth anniversary by reaching an impressive milestone – raising £100,000 to aid the city’s homeless population. Since its launch in September 2019, the initiative has seen an average annual donation of £25,000, with a network of 25 TAP points strategically placed across the city.

This groundbreaking project, delivered by Bristol City Centre BID in collaboration with Caring in Bristol and with recent support from Redcliffe & Temple BID, has played a crucial role in assisting individuals at risk of homelessness. It has achieved this by providing emergency grants through local charities while also supporting Caring in Bristol’s vital homelessness prevention initiatives.

TAP for Bristol has become a beacon of generosity in the city, quickly emerging as one of the fastest-growing donation systems of its kind. With 25 businesses and organizations in the city center housing TAP for Bristol points, the initiative has successfully raised funds for homelessness prevention services and direct emergency support for those in need.

All donations are divided equally between Caring in Bristol’s homelessness prevention work and grants for other organizations running projects that provide emergency funding for those experiencing homelessness. Beneficiaries of this emergency funding include Second Step, St Mungo’s, One25, 1625 Independent People, Next Link, and Caring in Bristol’s Caring at Christmas Campaign.

Over the past four years, TAP for Bristol’s emergency funding has made a significant impact, aiding over 744 individuals by providing essentials and household items to help them transition away from life on the streets. In addition, the prevention aspect of the funding has assisted over 700 people and families in retaining their homes, equipping them with knowledge about their housing rights to prevent future homelessness.

Vicky Lee, Head of Bristol City Centre BID, expressed her gratitude, saying, “Bristol has truly embraced TAP for Bristol, and it shows in the generous donation number of £100,000. What a milestone!”

Ian Byworth, CEO of Caring in Bristol, also shared his appreciation, stating, “Over the past four years, TAP funding has been a huge support to Caring in Bristol’s work in preventing homelessness. It has made it easy for Bristolians to donate to great causes.”

Steve Bluff, Head of Redcliffe & Temple BID, emphasized the commitment of local businesses to the initiative and encouraged more to get involved.

The donations generated through fundraising are facilitated, managed and evaluated by Quartet Community Foundation on behalf of TAP for Bristol.

As TAP for Bristol marks four years of making a significant difference in the fight against homelessness, its supporters remain enthusiastic about its future impact and potential growth. To learn more about TAP for Bristol or to apply for a grant, visit www.tapforbristol.org or contact Paula@bristolcitycentrebid.co.uk.

Main photo: Plaster

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