Caritas Community: A New Approach to Tackling Homelessness
A Vision for Change
The Caritas Community is an ambitious initiative to provide safe, supportive accommodation for people experiencing homelessness or social exclusion in Guernsey. More than just housing, this project will create a community-focused environment, helping individuals rebuild stability, gain independence, and work towards long-term solutions.
With many people in Guernsey struggling to access stable housing, there is an urgent need for temporary, supported accommodation. The Caritas Community will offer a place of safety and dignity, where residents receive support while preparing for independent living.
How It Will Work
- The community will consist of modular homes, designed to provide secure, temporary accommodation.
- The project will launch in phases, starting with 12 homes, with the potential for future expansion.
- Residents, known as Companions, will stay for three months to two years, depending on their needs and goals.
- A Community Manager will live on-site, providing guidance and ensuring a supportive environment.
- Companions will contribute to the community, helping with gardening, maintenance, and shared spaces.
A Sustainable & Supportive Community
The Caritas Community will be more than a place to stay—it will offer a pathway to stability through:
- A communal garden where residents can grow food and contribute to shared meals.
- Transport options, including electric bikes and a shared community vehicle, reducing reliance on personal cars.
- A focus on personal progress, supporting Companions as they work towards stable housing, employment, or education.
Who Will the Caritas Community Support?
The project is designed for individuals who are homeless, at risk of homelessness, or facing social exclusion. This could include:
- People living in unstable or temporary housing, such as guesthouses or lodging houses.
- Young adults not in employment, education, or training.
- Ex-offenders seeking a stable place to rebuild their lives.
- Others who need short-term support to transition into long-term housing.
- Each resident will have a clear plan for the future, whether it’s saving for a deposit, completing training, or securing employment.
Help Us Build the Caritas Community
This project can’t happen without support from the community. Caritas is working to bring this vision to life, but we need funding and partnerships to make it a reality.
If you’d like to help fund a home, support the project, or get involved, we’d love to hear from you. Every contribution brings us closer to creating a lasting solution to homelessness in Guernsey.