October 25, 2018 5.30 pm This story is over 65 months old

Lincoln warm rail overwhelmed by donations

Lots of donations for those in need
The warm rail. Photo: Connor Creaghan for The Lincolnite

The volunteer group behind the Lincoln’s warm rail have been overwhelmed by “heartwarming” donations to support the homeless.

Just one week after the initiative was brought back from the ashes, generous people have left jackets, blankets and sleeping bags.

As the weather gets colder, more homeless people and others in need will be once again able to wrap up warm with the donations.

Earlier this year, the original wooden rail was burned down in a deliberate arson attack.

“We have had to be a bit more careful this time around because of the fire,” Compassionate Lincoln volunteer Jan Kemp told The Lincolnite.

It’s located at the Nomad Trust, next City Square. Photo: Connor Creaghan for The Lincolnite

“We cannot leave it out all night anymore. The Nomad Trust are looking after the warm rail and take it in during the night.

“It’s not an ideal situation because people might want to quickly grab something in the night, but it needs to be protected.”

As previously reported, the original rail was burned down on January 5 in what was said to be a deliberate arson attack.

The culprit was seen on CCTV trying to set to warm rail alight but was never caught.

Photo: Connor Creaghan for The Lincolnite

Ever since the the new warm rail, Compassionate Lincoln have been inundated with people asking about the initiative.

The volunteer group have been more specific about donations this time around after receiving some impractical items like summer dresses in previous years.

But the warm rail, located at Nomad Trust shop on Waterside South, has still received lots of donations.

“It’s quite heartwarming and overwhelming to get donations at a time when we only hear bad things on the news.

“There are a lot of good people out there and the people who need these coats appreciate the donations.

“We’re expecting a particularly cold few days over the weekend, so we know that there are people living in our city who will truly benefit from this kindness.”