A NEW charity aiming to tackle the problems of homelessness and drugs has been launched.

Eden Gate aims to help those with alcohol or drug dependency problems in the city.

The launch saw city councillors including Cliff Suller attend the event to learn about the charity and its work within the city.

The charity is engaged in a number of projects including The Night Shelter Project, which provides a hot meal and safe, warm accommodation for the night, free of charge, for homeless people during the winter.

Last winter, it provided a total of 1137 accommodation/nights in 14 different locations in Newport for 86 guests.

It also provides a sympathetic listening ear and an opportunity for those living on the streets to chat and be taken seriously.

Chris Pennant of Eden Gate said: “The launch was very successful.

" We had around 20 people attend, including a few councillors.

“It was a positive event.

“We are aiming to make people aware of the problems people face and to support those people.”

At the event the charity stressed that the fundamental point about Eden Gate is that every individual is valuable.

In a statement they said: “If those of us who are better off work together, we really can make a difference for the ones who need help most.”

Staffed entirely by volunteers, the organisation relies heavily in the goodwill of people and churches in and around Newport.

The charity also has a drop-in centre providing advice, practical help and assistance.

To help out as a volunteer visit the centre at 86/87 Commercial Street.