Words by Smiley Team
Union Chapel - one of the most unique gig venues in the capital - has cancelled all events for the next month, operating instead wholly as a venue for coordinating emergency community work throughout the Borough of Islington.
Since 1992 when it was first registered as a charity, Union Chapel - an architectural treasure that’s home to an award winning venue, crisis and homeless shelter, has delivered specialist services for those most in need in communities, funded through ticket sales at the venue. In light of the global pandemic, they have increased their work, becoming a focal point for community organising throughout the area.
As of the 20th March 2020, the venue has ceased all performances and now is serving as a venue and drop off point for the Homeless COVID-19 Task Force and campaign, in partnership with Islington Council, the Museum of Homelessness, Streets Kitchen and other organisations to ensure that support still reaches those, especially in light of the fact many other support services have been unable to operate as a result of the crisis.
Their Margins Project - which provides essential support for people facing homelessness - continues to operate, providing night shelter, hot meals and washing facilities for those who need it most during this challenging time.
They are also supporting outreach in the local community, working with Help on Your Doorstep to bring essentials to the elderly, those self-isolating and keeping in touch with residents who take part in their Culture Cafe to ensure that they are not left lonely by the crisis.
Not only this, they are looking to take over the hosting of the Foodbank who are due to close, as well as supporting Streets Kitchen with outreach food bank.
Union Chapel welcomes money donations but also urgently needs food, hygiene products and bikes for food bank delivery and outdoors kitchens. They are also donating the cost of any unclaimed ticket refunds to the social and charitable work.
If you would like to find out more about ways to volunteer or support, they can be reached at [email protected]
By Ellen Jones
