A HOMELESS charity based in Worcester is marking its 40th anniversary with a plea for community support to help continue its services.
Maggs Day Centre has been supporting rough sleepers and those experiencing homelessness since 1985.
Born from a moment of tragedy, the passing of a homeless man named John Maggs in a derelict Worcester building, the charity was founded by members of local organisations who were determined to make a difference.
Forty years on, Maggs has grown into a county-wide service, offering not just essential day centre provision but a range of wraparound support to help people navigate their way toward stability and independence.
In 2024 alone, Maggs supported 704 individuals across its services, including open-access day centres in Worcester and Malvern, specialist outreach and harm reduction teams, an intensive transition support team for those with complex needs, and its clothing project, providing vital donated items to people sleeping rough or moving into accommodation.
Andy Price, chief executive at Maggs Day Centre, said: “Reaching our 40th anniversary is a powerful reminder of both how far we’ve come and how vital our work remains. The pressures facing those experiencing homelessness today, whether due to the cost-of-living crisis, mental health challenges, or a lack of affordable housing, are as urgent as ever. We’re incredibly proud to do what we do, but behind every number is a person with a story.”
To mark this landmark year, Maggs is launching a series of community and fundraising events, with the aim of raising £40,000 – a pound for every year of impact to help sustain and grow its services.
Jane Kemp, chair of trustees at Maggs Day Centre, added: “Maggs was built on compassion and community, and those values continue to drive everything we do. From our day centres in Worcester and Malvern to our dedicated outreach and support teams, we offer more than just practical help, we offer hope and a pathway forward.”
The charity is inviting local businesses, community groups and individuals to get involved in its anniversary year, whether by hosting a fundraising event, sponsoring one of Maggs’ initiatives, making a regular donation, or offering in-kind support.
Celebrations will begin with a charity netball tournament in Malvern this June, with more events and campaigns to follow throughout the year.
Visit www.maggsdaycentre.co.uk/40thanniversary for more information on how to get involved.
