Last week I visited the Salvation Army at their hostel for the homeless where I met with residents and staff.   It faces imminent closure as it is unable to meet the onerous contractual conditions imposed upon it by the Council.

The Salvation Army has had a presence in Darlington since 1953 providing accommodation and ancillary support for the homeless, many of whom are in desperate need.  Many spoke to me of their gratitude to the Salvation Army for picking them up off the ground and for providing them with hope for a brighter future.  With the help of the Salvation Army, the vast majority of those taken in soon become capable of independent living within the ‘outside’ world. 

In short the hostel provides a vital service to our community and, specifically, to those in most need.  They are looked after and supported by a dedicated and loyal workforce of some 21 people.  For the hostel to close down would be a tragic loss to the town and that is why I am joining the fight to keep it open.