Ark Aid's indoor location reopens to feed people experiencing homelessness

Ark Aid Street Mission reopened its indoor location at First Baptist Church this week to offer meals to those in need after having to close it because of how hot the temperature was there. 

"It has been the generosity of the community that's allowed us to do everything in our power to ensure that there is open and available space to homeless and impoverished people," said Sarah Campbell, the executive director of Ark Aid Street Mission. 

The decision of whether people will be allowed inside to receive their meals inside will be made on a day-by-day basis, depending on the weather and some electrical issues due to the building's older infrastructure. If weather permits, meals could also be served outdoors. 

The organization used the space at the church to feed around 400 people a day and also offered services like laundry and showers. Ark Aid had to close down its location last month after staff said it was too hot inside to continue operating.

In July, temperatures in the basement hit 32 C plus the humidity. After closing their doors, people experiencing homelessness had their meals served outdoors at Victoria Park. 

Ark Aid Street Mission first made a call out to the public for donations regarding installing temporary AC last month. Campbell said within 24 hours, the organization had hit their goal of raising $20,000 to install temporary AC. After having it installed, the organization found that their space still wasn't cool enough, and an anonymous donor stepped up to help the organization bring in a third air conditioner. 

"It's really exciting to be able to offer indoor space because across the city there is always a lack of welcoming indoor open spaces for people," said Campbell. 

The organization also let a few people inside at a time to access services like restrooms, showers, and clothing. With the air conditioning, Campbell said the organization will be able to let more people in at once to access those services. 

There have been other efforts to raise awareness regarding the homelessness situation in London in the summer. A hunger strike ended this month outside City Hall, with an advocacy group called the Forgotten 519 speaking with the City to draw attention to the issues people experiencing homelessness are facing. They said more than 30 people died this year because of homelessness.