Jimmy’s Cambridge marks three decades of helping the city’s homeless

Cambridge: Jimmy’s Cambridge is hitting a big milestone—30 years of helping the homeless. They’re thanking everyone who’s been part of this journey and planning some cool events for 2025.

The charity was inspired by Jim Dilley, a man who faced tough times and often slept rough. After he passed away in 1995, Jimmy’s Night Shelter opened its doors in his memory, becoming the first of its kind in the city.

A spokesperson for the charity shared, “We want to take this year to say thank you to everyone who has made Jimmy’s what it is now in 2025.” They really appreciate the community’s support in tackling homelessness.

Sadly, the need for their services is still high. A recent survey showed a 20% rise in homelessness in East Anglia last year. In Cambridge, there are usually around 20 to 30 people sleeping rough at any given time.

Despite the challenges, they want to celebrate all the supporters, from founders to volunteers. Many residents have turned their lives around thanks to the help they received, while others are still on their journey. They keep their doors open for everyone.

Over the past 30 years, Jimmy’s Cambridge has helped about a million people, providing countless meals and bed spaces. They offer life skills training, mental health support, and help with addiction recovery.

They also provide housing options, including single-person en-suite rooms and modular homes for those who need a fresh start. In 2019, they launched modular homes, a unique project in the UK, to give rough sleepers a chance at independent living with support.

Chief executive Natasha Davies said, “Jimmy’s has evolved to meet the growing and complex needs of our community. What hasn’t changed is our commitment to helping people. We believe in giving second chances, and we’ll never give up on anyone.”