The Society of St James
Christmas Campaign 2023
Support our 2023 Christmas Campaign and provide hot meals to those in need this Christmas
Story
This Christmas, we have a special campaign for you: Bring Christmas cheer and break the stigma for the homeless. Donate now and then delve into our daily advent calendar to discover more about homelessness and make a longer-lasting difference.
Homelessness is a complex and often misunderstood issue that affects thousands across the UK. Many people face stigma, discrimination and isolation because of their housing situation. They are often blamed for their own misfortune, or ignored by society.
But we believe that everyone deserves dignity, respect and compassion. That's why we are launching this campaign to raise awareness and funds for our work with people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. We want to show them that they are not alone, that they are valued and that they have hope for the future.
When you donate to our campaign, you will not only help us provide essential services and support to people who are homeless, but you will also get access to our exclusive advent calendar. Every day until Christmas, you will be able to open a new window and learn something new about homelessness and people who face multiple disadvantages. You will hear from our staff, volunteers and beneficiaries, who will share their stories, insights and tips on how to help people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness in your community. You will also find out about our projects, achievements and challenges, and how your donation makes a difference.
This year, we are aiming to raise £15,000 to fund our vital work.
Half of this amount will be used to ensure that our service users and residents experience a Christmas that is warm, safe and festive. We will provide them with food, gifts, activities and companionship, so that they can feel the love and care that they deserve.
A £5 donation could provide warm winter clothes such as gloves or scarves
A £10 donation could provide a Christmas meal
The other half of the amount will be used to support our key projects throughout the year, such as:
- Personal support: This is our fund that helps our service users and residents with their individual needs, such as clothing for an interview, a bus pass, a haircut or a dental appointment. These may seem like small things, but they can make a big difference in someone's life.
A £20 donation could provide a First Night Box for someone accessing a night shelter
A £25 donation could provide an Essentials Box that includes staple food and toiletry items
A £30 donation could provide a First Steps Box for someone moving off the street and into a hostel
A £50-£100 donation could provide an Independence box for someone who is moving on to independence
A £14.00 donation could pay for a weekly bus pass for someone starting a job
- SSJ Academy: This is our sport, education and volunteering project that helps our service users and residents to develop their skills, confidence and wellbeing. Through this project, they can access courses, qualifications, mentoring and coaching, as well as participate in sports and fitness activities.
A £12 per month donation could pay for 1 gym session for 10 people every month
A £20 per month donation could pay for 12 individuals to attend boxing sessions each month
A £13.55 per month donation could pay for one of our minibuses to stay on the road for one day every month
- Property refurbishment: This is our initiative that ensures we have good quality housing for the homeless to move into. We renovate and furnish properties that are suitable for our service users and residents, so that they can have a comfortable and dignified place to call home.
By participating in our campaign, you will be part of a movement that aims to end homelessness for good. You will help us challenge the stereotypes and prejudices that surround homelessness, and create a more inclusive and compassionate society. You will also spread some Christmas cheer and joy to those who need it most.
So don't wait any longer, donate now and join us in this exciting journey. Together, we can bring Christmas cheer and break the stigma for the homeless.
Don't forget to join our socials to experience our daily advent calendar throughout December.