Christmas ‘rucksacks’ for Bournemouth’s Homeless Veterans & Young People

With the colder weather, dark nights creeping in and Christmas getting closer, I’ve often thought of the homeless people I’ve seen around Bournemouth who are sleeping rough on the streets, wanting to do something to help. I try to buy them a hot drink and food but it never feels like enough.

I know there’s a bit of a stigma that all homeless people have drink and drug habits but some are on the streets because their relationships have broken down or they have ended up with financial difficulties. Veterans can become homeless due to Mental health problems related to military service. Things like PTSD, can increase the risk of homelessness with sufferers facing addiction and unemployment.

I’ve started this page to raise money in order to buy rucksacks for these people in need which I will distribute to those unlucky enough to be weathering this festive season on the streets of Bournemouth.

The ideal rucksack would include a hat, a pair of gloves, a fleece, socks, a sleeping bag and non perishable food. These items can make the difference between a bleak and cold night on the streets, to a warmer more tolerable one.

I would like to assemble at least twenty of these rucksacks, and if I raise enough to make thirty then I will do with relish!

Any amount of donation you can spare would be gratefully received and it will make a massive difference to many peoples lives in your local area at Christmas