Two thirds of asylum seekers are refused sanctuary in the UK by the Home Office. People who have fled their home countries due to political, ethnic or religious persecution are forced into a life of destitution. Yet many would rather live a life of desitution here than return to persecution or even death in their home countries. Others have no choice but to stay as they are unable to get travel documents or their is no safe route home. The Boaz Trust has six houses for destitute asylum seekers, which have been loaned to us by supporters or bought for our use by Green Pastures housing. We then pay all the bills and council tax and upkeep the properties. This costs about £5000 a year. Each house provides safe accommodation for 4 or 5 asylum seekers from countries such as Sudan, Somalia, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Cameroon, Iraq and Iran. This provides vital shelter for vulnerable people who would otherwise be on the streets or sofa-surfing between those who will take pity on them. Our residents also receive food parcels and other essentials, along with individual advocacy and support. They are also given the opportunity to join in our Meaningful Lives activities including English classes, crafts, gardening and volunteering opportunities. Once the asylum seekers are safe and settled they can work on gathering new evidence to put in a fresh asylum claim. If this is accepted they can then move on into accommodation provided by the Home Office, and will hopefully eventually receive permanent leave to remain. This then frees up a space in a house for another destitute asylum seeker.