Christians Against Poverty (CAP) is a non-profit organization, founded in Surrey. On a small scale, they have done incredible work in flipping the personal debt situation in the Epsom and Ewell constituency. Since its launch at St Barnabas Church in July 2015, CAP has helped residents to clear an amazing £972,413 in personal debt. Their continued support has been a game changer for our community! The charity has consistently experienced an increased demand for its services, with therapeutic appointments booked months in advance and into the summer.
Lucy Bahiti, head of CAP’s debt centre in Epsom and Ewell. She paints an inspiring picture of the ongoing need for support and advocacy in the community. She noted, “Things are getting a lot more difficult for people and actually, we often find in the summer things are quieter because people have got children at home, but it’s not this year.” Even our own For the Sake of All report shows the financial stressors that so many families are under.
CAP also partners with other organizations, including Citizens Advice and StepChange, to offer holistic support to go deeper. Among their services are home visits for those who might have difficulty coming to the center in person. Alan, who lives in Epsom and turned to CAP for help, recounts a time when debt was all-consuming.
“My finances just spiralled out of control to the point where I had no disposable income,” Alan said. He described how his salary was used up paying medical bills and mortgage obligations, leaving an untenable situation. Since leaving MHF Alan has joined another charity called Love Me Love My Mind. His engagement is a testament to how CAP’s advocacy makes the difference in improving people’s lives.
The nonprofit has given out key financial assistance. It has shifted power to people who are most able to address and respond to their own circumstances. Almost all of the clients tell CAP that they’re grateful for its counsel and advice. These are badly needed resources, particularly in times of economic stress.
Bahiti emphasized that not all parts of Epsom and Ewell are experiencing the same hardships. The charity’s original promise to help these communities still holds true today, as they still receive calls for help. As services become more central to successful programs, CAP’s experience and expertise will be invaluable to helping local residents avoid facing these pitfalls.
