Colchester's Homeless Shelter

Never Give Up Day 2025 – Finding Strength In Every Step

Today, on Never Give Up Day, we come together to celebrate one of the most powerful forces we have as humans — resilience. It’s the quiet strength that keeps us going when life feels impossibly heavy. 

At CENS, we see resilience every day in the people who walk through our doors for the first time, choosing hope over despair. It’s in the countless small victories that, slowly but surely, rebuild lives.

Why Small Victories Matter

When life feels overwhelming, big goals can seem out of reach. But every major transformation begins with taking small, consistent steps.

For someone experiencing homelessness, a small victory might be:

  • Making that first phone call for help.
  • Attending a job interview or just filling out an application.
  • Reconnecting with a family member.
  • Securing a safe place to sleep for the night.

These moments may seem small, but they are huge for the person experiencing them. Each one is a step closer towards a future that once may have felt impossible.

Story of Strength

One of our residents, John, spent years on the streets battling mental health challenges. He eventually found his way to CENS, where we provided him with the support he needed to take steps towards recovery. Last month, he moved into his own flat. When we asked him what he was most proud of, he said:

“It wasn’t getting the flat – it was the day I decided to walk into CENS. That was the hardest step, but it was also the step that changed everything.”

How You Can Celebrate Never Give Up Day

  • Share words of encouragement – A kind message can make someone’s day.
  • Recognise your own resilience – Think about the challenges you’ve overcome.
  • Support the work we do at CENS – Whether it’s through a donation, volunteering, or simply sharing our mission, you can help us keep hope alive.

Text CENS to 70085 to donate just £4 to help Pay 4 A Stay, or you can become a friend of CENS by becoming a regular or one-off donor by using CENS donation form below. Thank you!

CENS Essential Shopping List

  • Tea
  • Coffee
  • Sugar
  • Hot chocolate
  • UHT milk
  • Squash
  • Vgetable oil
  • Gravy granules
  • Ketchup
  • Mayonnaise
  • Salt & pepper
  • Stock cubes
  • Herbs and spices
  • Tinned fruit
  • Tinned/packet custard
  • Baked beans
  • Tinned tuna
  • Tinned vegetables & potatoes
  • Tinned tomatoes
  • Kidney beans
  • Breakfast cereals
  • Jam, peanut butter, chocolate spread
  • Shampoo
  • Conditioner
  • Men & women’s deodorant
  • Men’s razors
  • Shave gel
  • Shower gel
  • Toothpaste
  • Cloths
  • Scourers
  • Washing up liquid
  • Surface cleaners
  • Floor cleaner
  • Bleach
  • Bathroom cleaners
  • Bin bags
  • Food caddy liners
  • Loo roll
  • Washing tablets
  • AA batteries
  • NEW single duvets
  • Pillows/pillowcases
  • Single duvet covers/sheets
  • Clean/good condition towels

Please no soups!
Thank you