London: The British Asian Christian Association (BACA) has seen a near doubling in demand for its homeless services in Ilford, particularly from families with children.

London’s homelessness crisis has reached record levels, with over 183,000 people in temporary accommodation, including nearly 90,000 children.

BACA trustee Juliet Chowdhry raised concerns about the emotional and mental toll on children as winter approaches.

The charity is urgently seeking volunteers and donations, while hoping for government action to address the escalating crisis.

The British Asian Christian Association (BACA) has seen a significant increase in demand for its free hot meals service for the homeless in Ilford, with visitor numbers nearly doubling. As the winter months approach, BACA is urgently seeking more support and volunteers to meet the growing need. They will also begin receiving donations of clothing and essential items at their distribution center during their service days from 6pm – 7pm  at Clementswood Community Centre, Connaught Road, Ilford, every Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

Juliet Chowdhry, a trustee for the charity, said: “During some food distributions, we are seeing over 70 visitors—an unprecedented number—and serving them would be impossible without the support of our donors and volunteers. More parents with children are now seeking help, and though we prioritize families, we’re deeply concerned about the mental health and wellbeing of these children. The impact of homelessness on young minds is devastating; the constant instability and uncertainty can lead to long-term emotional trauma, anxiety, and developmental delays. The winter months will be especially harsh for them, with cold weather only adding to their suffering. It’s an alarming situation, and we urgently hope the government finds a solution to this growing crisis before more families fall into despair.”

This rise in demand comes amidst alarming new data shared by London Councils, revealing a severe homelessness crisis. A report titled London’s Homelessness Emergency highlights that over 183,000 Londoners, including nearly 90,000 children, are currently homeless and living in temporary accommodation. This is the highest recorded level of homelessness in the city. Boroughs have had to increasingly rely on placing homeless families in B&Bs, with a 662% rise in such placements over the past two years. The report warns that the situation is financially unsustainable, with boroughs collectively spending £114 million per month on temporary accommodation during the 2023-24 fiscal year.

Councils are calling for urgent government action to address this crisis, including doubling the Homelessness Prevention Grant and making Local Housing Allowance (LHA) increases permanent. London boroughs face a £700 million funding gap across all services, with homelessness pressures posing the most significant risk to their financial stability. The ongoing strain on local budgets has led several boroughs toward potential bankruptcy.

BACA’s efforts to provide meals and essential items to the homeless are vital as the demand for support continues to rise. However, the charity needs more resources and volunteers to continue its mission effectively, especially during the challenging winter season.