New Portsmouth Project Helps Homeless Get Back on Their Feet
A fresh initiative aimed at helping Portsmouth’s vulnerable set up home has officially launched. The Moving on Project Portsmouth (MOPP) opened its doors at Somerstown Hub, welcoming council members and community groups eager to back the cause.
From Handouts to Help: A New Approach
Sarah Knight, MOPP’s founder, previously ran the Facebook group Portsmouth Help for the Homeless, distributing essentials to rough sleepers. But she had a change of heart.
“Towards the end of running Portsmouth Help for the Homeless, I realised that I wasn’t actually helping,” Sarah admitted. “Giving homeless people survival tools was keeping them on the streets.”
“While they’re handed what they need to survive, they don’t turn to the services that can really help. I had to rethink everything.”
In March, Sarah launched MOPP to offer real support. Since then, they’ve helped 41 families and individuals move into and settle in new homes.
Furniture & Essentials for Fresh Starts
MOPP collects donated furniture to furnish homes of those struggling—whether they’re moving off the streets, leaving women’s refuges, or just can’t afford basic replacements.
“We go out weekly with a man and van to pick up furniture. The council has provided a storage unit where people come to collect what they need,” Sarah explained.
Local council housing boss Elaine Bastable praised the project’s impact.
“MOPP is doing fantastic voluntary work, giving furniture and belongings to people who have nothing,” said Elaine. “Our main support is providing storage, as donations were flooding in.”
“We also help spread the word to reach those who need it most.”
Community Backing and Real-Life Success
Stephen Morgan, MP for North Portsmouth, showed his support at the launch:
“MOPP is a brilliant local, community-led volunteer project. They support people settling into new homes with furniture and everyday essentials.
“What they’re doing is fantastic—Portsmouth at its best.”
Portsmouth Domestic Abuse services also gave MOPP a thumbs up for helping women starting over.
“Women come to us with nothing,” a spokesperson said. “MOPP helps make their house a home with beds, sofas, and essentials. Their support is massive.”
Andy Trewin was MOPP’s first beneficiary after winning custody of his son.
“We had no furniture or money—we were just surviving. MOPP gave us everything we needed,” he said. “Now I’m a volunteer because I want to give back.”
Urgent Appeal: Volunteers & Vehicles Needed
Sarah warns MOPP is at risk without new volunteers and especially a van and driver. Their current van leaves at the end of August.
“Losing our van would be devastating. We can’t do collections or deliveries without one,” she said.
For those who want to help or need support, contact Sarah on 07711 386069 or visit the MOPP Facebook page.
