About Porchlight
A safe home, better life and fairer future for everyone
We were founded to help people facing the devastating effects of homelessness. Today, we also tackle the causes and consequences of poverty and inequality.
In 1974, Tom Gifford and his wife Brigid, founded the charity that would become Porchlight.
Having experienced the devastating effects of homelessness, he wanted to create a fairer future for others in the same position.
In 2024, we are still here for people when it matters most. Offering safety, stability and respect; empowering people to live the life they want; and together, fighting for lasting change.
We work with around 6000 individuals and families every year. We help people to reach their full potential by breaking down the barriers to housing, mental and physical health, work, education, financial independence or daily living skills.
We have many services that can help support people and how we help depends on someone's situation. Whatever people are facing, we're here for people when it matters most.
Our work
Our work
The causes of homelessness
There are lots of reasons why people become homeless. Structural factors like the lack of affordable housing, poverty and unemployment can push someone into homelessness.
Personal factors like family breakdown, mental and physical health problems or substance misuse can also force people into housing crisis.
We're here to help people avoid or recover from homelessness so that they can get to where they want to be in life.
Find out more about the difference we're making across Kent