THE good work of a Thurrock-based charity in helping the borough's homeless and struggling families has once again be highlighted on social media after another successful 'soup kitchen event'.

Just a couple of days after a claim by Thurrock Council's ruling Conservative group that they have 'called time' on rough sleeping in the borough, a post by the Friends of Essex and London Homeless detailed the case of a woman who turned to them for help on Friday (21 January).

The Friends run an event every Friday outside Grays Baptist Church on IOrsett Road, which has proved to be a lifeline for the homeless community in the borough and others who are struggling to cope.

As well as hot food the charity, which has frequently featured on Thurrock Nub News, offers substantial help and support to those who ask for it and on Friday they were able to offer that help to 42 people.

A social media post by the group says: "On a very cold winter's night at our Friday night soup kitchen/essential foodbank and 42 happy service users all looked after magnificently by our wonderful volunteers who fly the Team FOELH flag with so much pride and ensure our guests are all catered for!

"Stepping back at one stage watching all the interactions of the team and service users sorting out what they wanted and also taking the time to engage and listen is so lovely to see and hear and demonstrates we are not just a charity who hands out foods and toiletries we are charity who continues to go the extra mile time and again week after week!!

"At the closing stages a lady approached the table and volunteer Anthony reached out and she mentioned that she was homeless and needed more help than what was on offer.

"We firstly made sure she had food, hot drink etc then we triaged her to understand her circumstances and we are in the process after contacting the necessary agencies to start helping her get off the streets.

"She was overwhelmed as we sorted her a sleeping bag and a Pod/tent to tide her over while we put the wheels in motion to get her the help she needs and couldn't thank us enough.

"We've spoken to our contacts and the help is forthcoming so fingers crossed we can get her on the road to recovery.

"Another productive night and yet again proven that the service we provide it a key link in the chain to helping those in need."