Crisis at Christmas rekindles lost connections, powered by Jangala WiFi
Many people experiencing homelessness can feel disconnected in many senses of the word - from society, loved ones and vital services and amenities. Jangala is proud to be partnering with Crisis, to provide their guests at three day centres and hotels in London with WiFi connectivity this holiday season.
Homelessness can take many forms, from visible rough sleeping, to “hidden” homelessness like sofa surfing, living in temporary accommodation and squatting. Unfortunately, it’s very often the case that people experiencing homelessness lose connection with their families and loved ones. Together with partners, Crisis helps them reach out and rekindle the lost connections as well as access digital services and long-term support.
One way they do this is through Digital Support Volunteers in designated IT cafes within the centres. Ian Richards, Head of Crisis at Christmas, explains:
“We often see guests making calls to loved ones who have been unable to do so for long periods of time, due to the challenges of experiencing homelessness. A safe space, somewhere to charge their phone, and vitally a free connection they can depend on, will support many to have long overdue catch ups with those they love.”
Crisis volunteer providing individual support to guest
The ultimate aim of Crisis at Christmas is to support people out of homelessness permanently, providing support that is beneficial in the long term - last year, they were successful with more than half of rough sleepers not returning to the streets, thanks to providing dedicated support to each guest – which often includes facilitating reconnections with loved ones. For example, last year a Digital Support Volunteer used digital translation services with a guest who recently arrived to the UK, and helped to successfully find their sibling who was living in London on Facebook.
Ian says: “Our guests who will be coming to spend Christmas with us in our Day Centres will be keen to join us for warmth, company, food and to get advice. Having Jangala’s free and accessible Wi-Fi on offer will mean guests will be able to maintain vital connections with friends and family, or to rekindle relationships.
On a more practical side, our Advice Service supports guests to apply for jobs, benefits, or housing, to find local services, and to research long term support.”
At Jangala, we believe that meaningful connectivity has the potential to uplift communities and individuals. Our Managing Director, Rich Thanki says: "During the holiday season, the importance of feeling connected, in all senses of the word, is never more critical.”
We echo Ian’s words of hope and optimism: “At Crisis we believe everyone has the right to achieve their full potential, and that this Christmas can be the start of a life beyond homelessness. Thanks to Jangala, our guests will be able to make and maintain vital connections to set them up for a brighter year ahead, and to support their journey out of homelessness.”