Charity rebrands in bid to resolve homelessness issues

Birmingham homeless support charity SIFA Fireside is preparing to launch the next stages of its life improvement programme for homeless adults over 25 through a service relaunch and a style rebranding.

Implementing a proactive response to supporting homeless and vulnerably housed individuals in Birmingham, SIFA Fireside has used the recent events to refocus and rebuild the lives of those people who may otherwise get left behind.

SIFA 's Fireside Drop-In Centre in Digbeth will continue to cater for clients ' essential needs such as hot food, showers and clothing whilst focusing on addressing the factors that cause homelessness on an individual, local and national level.

The Prevention, Crisis and Recovery programmes will provide targeted specialist support and stand by those who may otherwise slip through the net while they rebuild their lives.

SIFA Fireside will also lead the charge against modern slavery and people trafficking alongside the West Midlands Anti-Slavery Network and Birmingham City Council.

Carly Jones, chief executive of SIFA Fireside, said: “We 're not here to simply throw resources at a problem - we 're here to engage with the issues around homelessness on an individual, local and national level.

“That 's why our services have evolved and become more proactive, starting with striving to prevent homelessness where possible, dealing effectively with crisis where necessary but then providing support right through to resettlement and beyond. ”

SIFA Fireside 's Drop-In will serve as an inspirational space for homeless and vulnerably housed clients, promoting opportunities to pursue personal interests, partake in life skill programmes and evoke a feeling of the client 's belonging in Birmingham through immersive artwork and wide, welcoming spaces.

The Drop-In Centre has been rebranded in collaboration with Birmingham Colour Palette creator Stacey Barnfield, local artist and illustrator Jim Rogers and the help of a whole host of volunteers and corporate partners from local and national businesses.

The centre also features art works created by SIFA Fireside 's clients including an ongoing self-portrait project in collaboration with GRAIN and renowned photographer Anthony Luvera.

SIFA Fireside will be marking the relaunch and rebranding by welcoming invited guests to the Drop-In Centre on Tuesday 12 October from 2 to 4pm and from 4 to 6pm on Wednesday 13 October.

Guests will be able to experience the art on display, meet some of SIFA Fireside 's clients and learn more about the support services available and how you can help.

To attend, send a message to [email protected].

To find out more about SIFA Fireside, including how you can offer support, follow this link.