Last year’s Pride in Medway winners have once again received dozens of nominations for this year’s awards.

Liz and Darren Shaw, from Chatham, set up One Big Family – Helping the Homeless more than two years ago after seeing an increase in people living on the streets.

They provide warm clothing, food and shelter to rough sleepers, walking the streets almost every night to do what they can and running a soup kitchen.

This year they are also running an emergency winter night shelter, offering warm beds and further help over the colder months.

Last year the couple received an unprecedented number of nominations for Pride in Medway – almost 40 – from those who wanted to commend their tireless efforts, selfless and compassionate care and dedication.

And this year nominations have once again been flooding in for both Liz and Darren and for the charity as a whole.

Jayne Pugh said: “This couple work constantly in the community with the homeless and vulnerable. Night and day 24 hours. They are not just giving out things and feeding people but working actively with getting people into accommodation.”

“This couple work constantly in the community with the homeless and vulnerable. Night and day 24 hours. They are not just giving out things and feeding people but working actively with getting people into accommodation.” - Jayne Pugh

Sonia Foo said: “It is often frightening and daunting for someone who is homeless approaching associations for help.

“What Liz does is so compassionate as she accompanies the person in need, or sources someone who can if, on the odd occasion she is unavailable, to be there in person to make the process less traumatic.

“Liz helps organise papers they require, explains what is needed if the individual is confused and this creates a lifeline for the homeless who might otherwise be unable to get out of their dire situation.

“She is amazing in every sense of the word. Medway is a much better place because of her kindness and support for so many.”

One Big Family will be holding a festive evening for the homeless on Christmas Eve.

Under the big screen at Chatham bus station in Globe Lane, volunteers will be giving out the donations from their shoebox appeal.

There will be a Santa’s grotto, music, treats for pets, as well as lots of festive food and drinks.

Click here to nominate someone deserving for a Pride in Medway Award.

The closing date is January 5.