It is predicted to one of the coldest winters in three decades and OAPA is aiming to help more than 3,500 rough sleepers stay warm throughout winter.
Greg Mangham, founder and chief executive of Only A Pavement Away, said: “Winter is a terrible time to be on the streets, but in the run up to Christmas when most people are feeling festive and gathering with family and friends, having no home is not just a practical tragedy, but an emotional one.
“I hope Winter Warmth will not only keep those on the street warm, but also let them know that they are not alone, and that people care about them.”
Mangham founded OAPA on 10 October 2018 (National Homelessness Day) and it aims to get homeless people off the streets and into employment in the hospitality sector. In under a year OAPA has already successfully placed nearly 50 people into work.
The hospitality industry is the third largest employer in the UK and is predicted to have a 1.3 million workforce by 2024. Participating pubs, bars and caterers will collect coats, blankets and sleeping bags to donate to OAPA.
The charity is hoping to raise enough money to fund 3,500 handwarmers to give out to the homeless. Donations close on 30 November, to make a donation visit: https://onlyapavementaway.co.uk/winter-warmth-campaign/