We collect donated second hand furniture, kitchen appliances, bedding, clothes, toys, baby equipment and distribute them to families referred to us by health visitors, housing officers, hostels and refuges. We also run a weekly drop-in providing clothes and basic friendship and support. We are wholly staffed by volunteers and totally funded by small charitable grants and private donations. We help people in need regardless of their background or beliefs.
Why the community needs usHundreds of vulnerable households find themselves in distress in Greenwich and Lewisham every year. Often official agencies are not able to provide household basics for people being moved into temporary homes and need to send vulnerable families to Lee Oasis for help. We fill the gap by providing furniture and equipment donated by local communities - from beds and tables to towels, pans and crockery.
Our impact on the communityWe helped over 200 families last year and more than 600 vulnerable people attended our drop in. Re-conditioned cookers helped struggling parents provide basic nutritious meals; stair gates keep smaller children safe; beds and bedding provide basic comforts in bleak accommodation. Our users tell us that they feel safer, healthier and less stressed as a result of our help. 25% of our volunteers are former beneficiaries, a sign of how much our support has helped them re-engage with society.
We always need volunteers such as van team, furniture managers, drop in helpers, admin roles and drivers. If you're interested, please email on lee.oasis.charity@gmail.com or call us on 07948 838 316 to find out more. Or take a look at www.leeoasis.org.uk