Stories and Feedback

“As winter comes to a close, we at Cambridge Dining Co. reflect on our rewarding partnership with It Takes A City and Crossways. Over the past five months, we’ve had the privilege of delivering nourishing meals to those in need. This collaboration, alongside Cambscuisine and The Cambridge Community City Foundation, has been a meaningful way for us to make a real difference in our community. We’re inspired by Crossways’ dedication to supporting those facing homelessness, and it’s been fulfilling to provide comfort through something as simple as a meal.”

“I’ve got a bit of a bad history with hostels, but they (the staff at Crossways) were only interested in where I am now. The staff are just brilliant. They’ve helped me endlessly. The food here is amazing. I’m going to miss this place when I leave. It’s touched me”.

“The staff are absolute diamonds. They bend over backwards to help you. I’ve got all my confidence back and feel that I want to live again”.

“I don’t know what I would do without all the support you have provided. I feel so lucky to have been able to start my journey at Crossways”

“We love coming to volunteer at the weekends. Crossways has a family feel to it and the staff take such good care of everyone on site.”

“Volunteering at Crossways is great fun and very rewarding. Meeting the residents, hearing their stories, having a laugh with them. I’ve learned a lot about life and about people. The staff do a fantastic job of making the house welcoming and friendly, and the other volunteers are a lovely bunch. Come and try it next winter!”

“Thanks for all the amazing work you do and how well you treat us volunteers.”

“Crossways play a vital role in providing extra bed spaces over the winter period, when the rough sleepers we work with are more vulnerable to the elements. We stay in close contact to keep all 20 bed spaces full through quick and decisive action. Crossways takes all referrals from Street Outreach, ensuring those accessing support are the most at-risk. All referrals are risk-assessed by us to safeguard prospective and current residents. There is consistent and open dialogue between us, which is key to providing Cambridge’s rough sleepers with safety and respite during an immensely difficult period’ Jamie Hilton, Team Leader, Street Outreach (Cambridge).”

“We have built up a partnership with Crossways, which has allowed us to work together more efficiently. We would regularly communicate week to week about service users and their needs. Working together allowed us to look at housing, welfare, move plans and share the job. Staff from Crossways would come to my Frontline meeting at Wintercomfort every month, which helped us keep in touch.’ Alex Horton, Service Supervisor, Wintercomfort.”

“What helps: the Haven”

“The Haven is a godsend, a long overdue female-led service that offers us somewhere to shower, eat, sleep, relax, or just to get some respite from the stress of being on the streets. A little bit of normality and home comforts, even just 2 nights a week, can make the week much more bearable”

“I just want to say thank you for not giving up on me over the years. I would not have blamed you if you had done. You are one in a million.”

“I wanted to thank you so much for all you do to support the homeless in Cambridge. I am a teacher and sat in an assembly that you did this week. I was really moved by how it was delivered and the stories shared.”

“It was our pleasure to have you in our school, and I would like to thank you for your time. The children were really engaged and found your presentation both inspiring and fascinating. Your stories really got to us, and I can only thank you for visiting our school.”