Homelessness doesn’t take a summer break – something people seeking support at The Archer Project, and the team who work to deliver its services, unfortunately know all too well.
Summer is a favourite time of year for many, with the promise of longer days, festivals, ice cream, barbeques, and holidays on the horizon. But with the fun that summer brings, the brutalities of homelessness can often be forgotten.
Heat exhaustion, dehydration, sunburns, social isolation, and heightened risks of abuse are all prevalent in summer for people experiencing homelessness. The Archer Project have launched a Summer Campaign to highlight these factors, while asking for help to raise the funds needed to cover the costs of their vital services.
The charity’s Head of Fundraising, Joe Logan says: “We want to emphasise that homelessness is still an issue in the warmer months, when people don’t necessarily recognise it. Awareness of homelessness drops significantly during summer, but we still have to keep up with demand for our services during this time.
“Understandably, people associate a greater need for homelessness services with the winter months. But actually, our team reports consistency in the need for our services throughout the year. Even with the warmer weather, we very recently saw the busiest breakfast service we’ve ever had at The Project!”
There are lots of different ways you can fundraise as part of The Archer Project’s Summer Campaign. Deputy Head of Fundraising, Lucy Wilks says: “Fundraising is a great way to explore something you know you really enjoy, or something you’ve never tried before! Whether you raise funds individually or in a group – choose something that you find engaging and genuinely want to take part in.”
A few of the team’s suggestions include hosting a social event like a picnic, quiz night, bake sale or even a quirky ‘speed mating’ evening to bring people together. Taking part in ‘Dry July’ is another great option – a fundraising challenge to go booze-free for the month, which can be particularly meaningful considering how tough the summer drinking culture can be for people in recovery. There’s also the option of a sponsored walking challenge, reflecting the long distances many are forced to travel on foot for safety while raising vital funds.
You can find more ideas and download a digital fundraising guide over at: archerproject.org.uk/fundraising
2024 was The Archer Project’s busiest year on record. The team supported 1,223 individuals, served over 24,000 meals, facilitated 205 therapeutic sessions, and helped 27 people move towards stability through volunteering – all without any government funding. And 2025 is already shaping up to be just as demanding, with over 550 people supported in the first three months alone.
So this summer, while you’re soaking up the sun, consider lending a hand – or a fundraiser – to support one of Sheffield’s most vital charities. Because homelessness doesn’t take a summer holiday.
