Just a Helping Hand was launched in January 2016 by members of Beacon Church, Chertsey in Surrey, to help local people in Runnymede and the surrounding areas who find themselves homeless.
We offer day to day essentials in a rucksack, warm clothing, shower and laundry facilities, a listening ear, and signposting to local services who can also help.
Over the years we have been privileged to help many people in need and have given out dozens of rucksacks, adapting their design and contents as we have learnt the items most needed like new socks and underwear, a thermos flask with free refill at our partnering locations. We are so grateful to the many organisations who support us through collection boxes in shops, drop-off points for donated items, from the public generally, and from other outlets and companies who kindly make donations. We are also grateful to our many volunteers who, without their help, all of this wouldn’t happen.
A Simple Conversation That Sparked a Growing Ministry
Over coffee one afternoon, two of the members of Beacon Church discovered they shared the same quiet longing: to do something, anything, to help people experiencing homelessness. One had recently supported someone over the Christmas period, while the other had been carrying the desire to get involved for some time but didn’t know where to begin.
So, they did the simplest and bravest thing. They just started.
With no formal plan and using their own resources, they began purchasing practical items a homeless person might need and giving them out. What began as a small act of kindness soon grew into something bigger. They connected with a local night shelter and started supporting its work, finding joy in being able to help in a tangible way.
When they shared their vision with the Beacon Church congregation, the response was wholehearted. Donations poured in, and together the church family began making a meaningful difference.
But perhaps the most powerful moments came when the two volunteers visited a night shelter to drop off the collected items. Over a cuppa with the residents, they listened to stories, real, raw, and deeply human. They heard about the challenges people were facing and the circumstances that had brought them to the shelter. And in the midst of those conversations, something unexpected happened: several residents said that what they needed most was prayer.
It was a reminder that beyond physical needs, people long to be seen, valued, and held in hope. What began as a simple idea has grown into a ministry rooted in compassion, community, and the belief that small acts of kindness can open the door to deeper connection.
Growing Beyond the First Steps
At the same time, the two volunteers came across others in need, women in a refuge, a family facing real hardship, and a gentleman who needed groceries. They donated to a local homeless charity and even joined their sponsored sleep‑out to raise funds. Experiencing a small glimpse of what rough sleeping might feel like left a deep impact.
However, they soon realised that relying on their own limited income wasn’t sustainable. The need was simply too great. So, they began fundraising, selling plants at school fairs, open garden events, and table‑top sales. They approached local garden centres for plant donations and were delighted when many said “yes.”
They also began asking for practical donations, especially toiletries. But they needed a central, accessible drop‑off point. The newly opened Revive Coffee Shop, part of Beacon Church, was the perfect place. Located in the heart of Chertsey, it offered both visibility and space. With more donations coming in, combined with their fundraising efforts, they were able to help even more individuals.
The First Rucksack
Just a Helping Hand was contacted by another charity they had previously met, asking if they could provide essential items for a gentleman in need. The items they had weren’t enough, so they sourced additional clothing—good quality pre‑loved T‑shirts, new jeans, socks, underwear, and were even gifted a pair of brand‑new trainers.
Everything was gathered together with toiletries and placed into a rucksack. That moment sparked a realisation: a rucksack was the ideal way to provide support. It allowed the recipient to carry their belongings easily and offered a mobile, dignified storage solution.
The very first rucksack was given out in May 2016.
Meeting People in Difficult Situations
Over time, the team encountered people sleeping rough in many locations, outside supermarkets, in local woods, behind shops, in bins, in a garage, at a bus stop, and sometimes with dogs. Each person had a story. Many were heart-breaking. And often the result of unexpected circumstances. And all of them were human beings deserving of dignity.
One moment stands out: a gentleman declined a handshake because his hands were dirty and he felt embarrassed. Knowing how important it was for him to feel accepted, the volunteers reassured him it was okay. Eventually, he felt able to shake hands. A simple gesture, but one that meant everything.
Where We Are Now
Our Charity continues to support people as best we can, including directing them to local services whenever possible. Our rucksacks have evolved over time, with new items added to meet the needs of those we encounter.
We have also formed strong links with various organisations, including Runnymede Borough Council, who help distribute our filled rucksacks. Hebrews Coffee Shop at St Paul’s Church, Addlestone, has generously provided complimentary meal vouchers since 2017.
Another valued partner is The Salvation Army in Ashford, who support women leaving Bronzefield Women’s Prison. They offer our filled rucksacks to these women who often have nowhere to go and face a difficult journey ahead.
Just a Helping Hand is truly established now, although there is much to do and we are always open to ways to improve in what we provide and how best to accomplish our mission to help the homeless.
If you ever see a rough sleeper?
If you see someone who’s rough sleeping, we would suggest that you notify us or contact Street link: Your alert can connect them to local outreach teams for safety and support. In an emergency call 999
