1 Dec 2005 - Margaret Foster, Stevenage Haven Trustee & Volunteer retires
Paul Chappell, Stevenage Haven Chairman of Trustees, reflects:
"Margaret Foster has been associated with the homelessness issue in Stevenage for over 15 years now, before Stevenage Haven even existed. Her late husband, Chris, started the first winter single homeless shelter back in 1992 and Margaret has continued to support and build on that early work both as a volunteer and for some years as a Trustee of Stevenage Haven. Margaret has made a very significant contribution to our work over the years. It is fitting that her dream of Stevenage Haven providing supported move on accommodation is now being realised through the opening of our first supported house, Haven2. As Margaret moves from Stevenage to Northern California to be with her family we wish her every happiness in her retirement and look forward to seeing her on her visits back to the UK."
-------------------------- 'Reflections' from Margaret Foster -------------------------------
I have been asked to give my reflections of Stevenage Haven as I leave for foreign parts. Chris and I first got involved with the homeless in the late 1980's. In 1992 with the help and support of Stevenage Borough Council, Chris started 'Winter Haven' which was open from November to February, with residents sleeping on the floor with curtains separating male and females. The Volunteers came from all the Stevenage Churches. They did a wonderful job. It was a great adventure for everyone, staff and residents. From these humble beginnings I have seen Stevenage Haven grow into a fantastic and professional, caring project.
We have had our ups and downs. We had a very scary time when we thought we would have to close down but with the hard work and perseverance of the staff and trustees we managed to save Stevenage Haven. The moving to Ditchmore Lane and the all day opening was a really monumental moment and I was so proud naming the new hostel: 'Chris Foster House'. My long term dream came true when we opened Haven2 in October this year. I always thought that this would be the next step.
The residents never fail to surprise me with their bravery and perseverance. I often wonder how I would have coped in this situation.
Stevenage Haven is so successful because of the fantastic work, love and caring of the staff - they are magnificent. I am so proud to have been involved with this project. I am also taking so many wonderful memories of Stevenage Haven away with me - but I shall keep in touch.
Margaret Foster, November 2005.
[left to right, top to bottom]
Alan Curtis, David Kissane, John Moore, Paul Chappell, David West
Zoe Day, Margaret Foster, Olwen James
1993 Letter