Diocese of Chichester

Church leader hailed 'local hero'

A CHURCH leader at St Peter’s Church in Brighton has been named a “local hero” for helping homeless and vulnerable people in 2020.

On 29 dec 2020

In Diocese of Chichester

By Comms

Sam Coates, church leader at St Peter’s Church in Brighton and founder of the Safehaven Women’s Service, was awarded the commendation by gardening centre chain Dobbies and the Teenage Cancer Trust.

Sam has worked throughout the year to support service users through Brighton Housing Trust. Her work includes initiatives to deliver food hampers and furniture to the charity’s accommodation for people with mental health issues and complex needs.

San Sehjal, who works at Brighton Housing Trust and nominated Sam, said: “She has always gone above and beyond to support vulnerable people in our city. All her acts of kindness have reminded our clients they are cared for and part of our community.”

“Brighton and Hove would be a very different place if it weren’t for inspirational people like Sam.”

Sam said: “I’m incredibly proud the initiatives my team of dedicated volunteers and I have worked on have made such a difference to our local area.”

“I’m committed to continuing to support those in need in Brighton and Hove as much as possible.”