CHURCHES throughout the Caerphilly county borough have opened their doors to support the homeless again this winter.

The Caerphilly Churches Night Shelter project is run in partnership with Caerphilly County Borough Council’s Housing Advice Team, Cornerstone Support Services Ltd and local churches.

Now in its fifth year, Caerphilly Churches Night Shelter will see eleven churches and a team of volunteers work to provide shelter, hot meals, essential support and advice to the homeless during the most difficult months of the year.

Cllr David Poole, the council’s deputy leader and cabinet member for housing, said “Despite the council’s efforts in working to prevent homelessness, there are still a number of people who will find themselves homeless each year.

“As well as providing those most vulnerable with a safe place to sleep and hot meals during the cold winter months, the partnership between the council, churches and Cornerstone will also ensure support and assistance is given to individuals who access the Night Shelter; helping them find longer term accommodation and even access employment opportunities”.

Caerphilly Churches Night Shelter will run until March 31, 2017.

The service is run on a referral only basis and the form can be found online at caerphilly.gov.uk/housing.