A HOMELESS charity faces “deeply troubling” times and has warned the Covid-19 crisis has created unprecedented demand for its services.

Turning Tides, which supports 200 homeless people in West Sussex, is urgently asking for help as it faces a 50 per cent drop in fundraising income due to lockdown.

The charity has supported homeless people across the county for the last 28 years but chief executive John Holmstrom says: “We have never seen anything like the situation we are facing now and urgently need to ask for help.

“The picture is deeply troubling.”

The charity is asking the public to join a “campaign to keep homeless people in our community alive” and emergency donations are requested via the website www.turning-tides.org.uk.

Mr Holmstrom said: “We have 21 properties across the county supporting some 200 homeless people.

“Additionally, we are providing vital practical and emotional support to growing numbers of rough sleepers housed in temporary accommodation to limit the spread of the virus.

“There is an unprecedented demand on our services and this will only increase in the weeks and months to come.”

  • The coronavirus Sussex Crisis Fund has been set up to help those affected by the pandemic. The Argus’s charity and American Express have each donated £50,000 to kick-start the appeal. Grants will usually be for up to £5,000. More information is available at www.sussexgiving. org.uk/apply. To donate visit www.totalgiving.co.uk/appeal/sussexcrisisfund