Winton Salvation Army thanks community donors, legacy givers, and calls for volunteers

The Salvation Army in Winton today extended a heartfelt thank you to its donors, funders, partners, and those who have remembered the charity in their wills—legacies that provide a lasting lifeline for generations to come. This generous support has enabled the centre to serve 323 free meals to people experiencing rough sleeping already this year, along with providing bathing facilities, foot care, sleeping bags, and clothing to the most vulnerable members of the community.

Tina Shave, the Community Centre Manager at Winton Salvation Army said behind the numbers are human stories of isolation transformed by simple kindness.

“One person currently being helped, told us they have found kindness here without judgement. He says people here have been there for him when no one else was.”

In a year marked by rising challenges, including a building that needs upgrades, the Winton Salvation Army community centre has continued to put people first. The centre relies on income from its charity shop, grants, public donations, and legacies simply to keep its doors open. Every day presents a careful juggling act of limited funds, but the team’s heart remains fixed on serving local people in need.

The centre is part of the BCP Homelessness Partnership, working with partners across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole to ensure a place of warmth and hot food is available every evening and daytime.

Recently, a woman who had been trying to summon the courage to visit for weeks finally walked through the door. She hadn’t eaten that day. A team member sat with her as she poured out her story, then took her to the café for lunch, covered by the centre’s fund for vulnerable people. She stayed the whole day, dried her tears, and relaxed. She has since returned several times when life became too much, knowing she will always be met with a listening ear.

The centre also offers daily bathroom access and during evening hot meal services—a service that generates a great deal of laundry. An “army” of volunteers and staff take on the washing, requiring vast amounts of detergent. Donors recently helped supply new sleeping bags after a volunteer spoke to a neighbour, who now provides brand new, high-quality bags for those in need.

Now, the centre is urgently calling for more volunteers to help sort through the growing mountain of donated clothing, bedding, and toiletries—ensuring that every item reaches someone who needs it quickly and with dignity. The team is also making a specific appeal: 1-person tents. Even though temperatures are warming up, people still need tents to keep dry. These lightweight, portable shelters offer immediate, weather-resistant protection for rough sleepers who are not yet ready or able to access hostel accommodation.

Over the summer the centre will need to purchase more bottled water, Pot Noodles, and cereal bars for people to take away. Every donation counts: £5 buys a sandwich or bacon bap and a warm drink. £20 covers a hot meal and drink, or items of clothing and toiletries. A legacy gift, no matter the size, plants seeds of mercy that bloom for years to come.

Tina said, “The building does not matter—but the people in it do. Our people all share a friendly smile, a word of welcome, and as much kindness as is humanly possible. That is why we are here. And it is only possible because of those who support us—today, and in the future through their wills.”

The Salvation Army in Winton continues to challenge the misconception that homelessness is a chosen way of life for all. Through conversation, compassion, and practical help, the centre is creating space for understanding—and proving that grace really does happen here.

To donate, leave a legacy, volunteer to sort donations, or drop off 1-person tents, please visit their website: Winton | The Salvation Army or visit them at 1 Latimer Road, Winton, Bournemouth.