Blackpool homeless charity hit with £900 bill after flood causes ceiling to come crashing down

The Blackpool Community Homeless Project on Talbot Road was flooded towards the end of last month, racking up damages of around £900.

Project founder Kevin Long said: "This leak occurred two weekends ago and was a shock to us as we are currently closed due to Covid-19 restrictions.

"The leak caused a lot of damage. It caused a flood in our homeless drop in hub, which then went through the floor to the shop ceiling. The walls are stained and need repainting and all the ceiling tiles have collapsed and need replacing. The carpet was stained and soaked and we had to get it cleaned.

"There was furniture and donations, as well as a load of food provision that we hand out, that was soaked and no good. We had to pay a waste company to remove the furniture that was damaged and get a plumber and electrician in."

The charity has appealed for help from its supporters in this difficult time.

Kevin said: "We have currently rehomed 42 homeless clients and have helped over 130 persons through the Covid-19 period. We are still working in the office throughout the lockdown providing support and offering a takeaway outreach service Monday to Friday lunch times.

"At this hard time we do need support from our community. Our current income is zero due to the shop closure during lockdown."