Pledge project to help the homeless in Darlington

Mayor Bryan Thistlethwaite became the first person to sign the pledge at the launch of the 700 Club's Bridge2Home scheme yesterday.

More than 20 people have already backed the project, which will create a fund to cover deposits and bonds, allowing landlords to give a home to people who may not otherwise have the means.

Pledgeholders are asked to promise up to £50 each year to cover the costs of any damage caused to homes in lieu of traditional bonds.

The scheme, with support from voluntary organisation eVOLution, Darlington Borough Council and funding from Northern Rock, was launched before an invited audience at an event at Grange Road Baptist Church, where the 700 Club is based.

The Reverend Dr John Elliston, interim chief executive of the 700 Club, hoped at least 75 people would sign up. He said they would be more likely to pay between £20 and £30.

Dr Elliston said: "It is a straightforward scheme and relies on the value we have as a community working together for the benefit of those who are homeless or in inappropriate accommodation."

The 700 Club was hit with a £250,000 legal bill earlier this year following an employment tribunal held to settle a contractual dispute between it and the Salvation Army.

Despite continued assurances the 700 Club would continue, Dr Elliston said rumours persisted it was facing closure.

He said: "The rumours that we are closing or are bankrupt are untrue.We have a healthy bank balance and we have drawn a line under our losses."

Councillor Thistlethwaite said: "Most of us in this room have been watching the events that have unfolded in the media.

"It gave me more impetus to be here today to sign up for local people.

"We have all been fortunate to have a roof over our heads and a home life. It is a bed rock of life.

"I think the scheme will go from strength to strength."

For more details, contact the 700 Club on 01325-366397 or visit 700club.org.uk