Asda Old Kent Road donates £500 to winter night shelter charity

Diane Belmar, Robes Project volunteer team leader at Bermondsey Central Hall Methodist church, took part in the charity's sponsored sleepout in the grounds of Southwark Cathedral in early December.

On Monday morning Asda presented the Robes Project with a cheque for £500 in recognition of Diane's efforts.

"I was delighted Asda supported my sleepout team in raising money for the Robes shelter," said Diane Belmar.

"Their donation of £500 will go a long way in helping rough sleepers in South London this winter."

Diane was joined for the presentation ceremony by her sleepout team-mates Velma Jelley and Cllr Poddy Clark, chair of Borough & Bankside Community Council.

Maggie Peters, community coordinator at Asda Old Kent Road, said: "Everyone at Asda is impressed by the work Robes does to look after people who sleep rough in Southwark and Lambeth.

"We're pleased to support Diane and her team, along with everyone keeping the shelter open this winter."

The Robes Project provides a hot dinner, somewhere to sleep and wash, and a cooked breakfast for up to 15 guests every night between November and April.

As well as short-term support, the Robes project helps its guests find training, jobs and long-term accommodation.

This winter 17 church venues are hosting the shelter.