Ways to make a difference at Christmas
So this is Christmas… here are ways to help those who desperately need some comfort and joy
1. Donate to a food bank
The Trussell Trust helps you give something back, no matter how big or small your budget is. The Trust has a network of over 400 food banks, with many located in supermarkets across the UK. Last year they distributed three-day emergency food supplies to over 1 million people in crisis. So if you have any unperishable food, or food with long expiry dates, to spare you can find your closest food bank or donate money towards future supplies via The Trussell Trust website.
2. Support Shelter
The Shelter charity supports those who are homeless or struggling and living in poor housing. They have a variety of ways you can donate to help combat homelessness, and make sure people aren’t sleeping out in the cold this winter.
Shop from a Shelter charity shop, or volunteer, if you are local. You can also donate second-hand clothes, electricals and books. Or send Shelter charity Christmas cards to help raise funds.
3. Create a care package
Create and donate a care package for the Hope Centre here in Northampton. The Centre accepts donations at Oasis House, 35–37 Campbell Street. You can find out more information about times when they are open on their website.
Get together with flatmates or fellow students to create a package. Our Geography students have donated a care package, and shared the news:
As well as food items, tea and coffee, other useful things to donate include:
- Men’s and women’s underwear
- Large shoes and work boots sizes 9–13
- Cleaning products and paper towels — for kitchen and bathroom
4. One more thing you can DEFINITELY do
Lastly, if you’re thinking you really want to do something to help a good cause and feel good about yourself, sharing this article on your social media and raising awareness will really help a lot!
Whatever you do, do something for others this year and feel awesome.
