The money has been donated to this year’s chosen charity, the Dover Outreach Centre, a homeless charity set up not to support people in their homelessness but to help them out of it. To this end, a postal address is provided, help with form filling, letter writing, CVs, job applications and in finding accommodation. The charity has seen much success in housing previously homeless people, 93 in total, 59 have been helped to find work and 17 reunited with family in other areas. Eight have been repatriated to home nations while two have been placed into long-term rehabilitation for drug and alcohol dependency.

Many homeless people suffer from mental health problems. Unlimited appointment time is offered with a professional therapist to help them overcome their problems. The daily drop-in centre offers a wide range of services to help these members of Dover’s community find their way back to independence.

The Dover Outreach Centre also runs the Winter Night Shelter during the three coldest months of the year for up to 15 guests and a social enterprise which employs previously homeless people. The charity is funded solely by donation and staffed by volunteers. To find out more about the charity please visit www.doveroutreachcentre.org

Amanda Stewart, Port of Dover Regatta Event Organiser said: “Despite the inclement weather forecast, the community turned up early to support the event again this year. We are delighted to be able to hold this annual event to bring the port and community together and support such worthy charities in the work they do within the local area. Our thanks also go to the participants, traders and the thousands that braved the weather to make it such a success again.”  

Noel Beamish, Dover Outreach Centre Project Manager said: “This donation is incredibly helpful and an amazing amount. We will use the funding to cover our winter fuel bills and put the remainder towards the general running costs of the day centre. We appreciate the support given so much.”