On Christmas Day, your donations reached and comforted more than 1,000 homeless people across England. They were given wonderful gifts, surprises, and meals to combat what can be a difficult time of year for people who have experienced a period of homelessness.
The SASH project in Manchester provides essential services in a city where there is very high population of rough sleepers. Staff cooked a home-made meal for 21 residents, including those staying in emergency beds over the winter.
“They also each received a set of gifts and a £5 voucher. Their gratitude was overwhelming,” said one member of staff.
Elsewhere in the country, ex-offenders face stigma and isolation that can result in them reoffending to survive. Instead, residents at a scheme for former detainees and men with high support needs enjoyed a delicious Christmas buffet lunch together. Their support staff planned a range of activities to make sure that they had a fantastic Christmas season with food, activities, and presents.
“Some of our residents have never experienced a fun-packed, enjoyable Christmas. We try to make the festive season as pleasant and enjoyable as possible for all.”
For homeless families, Christmas is difficult in another way: it is an expense they cannot afford. But money being tight shouldn’t prevent them from spending quality time together, socialising with other parents, and making special memories with their children.
Your donations meant that mums and their babies got to have some special treats over the Festive period. Mums with older children went to the cinema, while kids too young to sit through a film went to the nearby play area, and then all got together again over lunch. Most of the children had not been to the cinema before; this was a first for them and they found the experience amazing.
