A CHARITY which delivers healthcare services to the homeless has received a major funding grant.

Beacon House, which is based in Colchester and was one of 30 charities which applied for monetary support, received the £20,000 from Provide Community after applying to the community grants initiative.

Much of the work undertaken by the Beacon House charity involves primary healthcare, as well as providing practical support, advice, occupational therapy, and health awareness workshops.

But the organisation has faced a steep increase in demand for support, prompting Beacon House to apply for the grant from Provide Community – a social enterprise – so costs of core operations and clinical services can be offset.

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Beacon House’s chief executive officer Steve Brown said of the funding was essential for the charity.

He said: "Without the financial support of organisations like Provide Community, it would be impossible for Beacon House Ministries to effectively carry out its mission of transforming lives – walking together with homeless people on the journey from homelessness to self-fulfilled, independent living.

“We never take such support for granted and are extremely grateful that they have chosen to partner with Beacon House Ministries as, together, we seek to make a positive difference in the lives of many very disadvantaged people.”