For another year, Cooksmill Green Church is fundraising over the month of December to help the Sanctus Cafe and Support Hub as they provide a safe environment, support services and food the homeless and vulnerable people in Chelmsford.

Message from Sanctus:

At Sanctus, we are so grateful to have been chosen for a fourth year in a row by Cooksmill Green Church to be supported through their Christmas Appeal. The support we have received from the Cooksmill Green Church community really has meant a lot and has made a huge difference to us at what is often the most challenging time of year. This year will be no different, and all the funds received will go towards our frontline food and support services, as well as our response to the cost-of-living crisis.

Below we have included our charity video to give you more of an insight into the work we are doing at Sanctus:

Many people look forward to the winter months and the Christmas period, enjoying being with friends and family, sharing food and gifts in the warmth of a home. Due to the cost-of-living crisis, we know that for many, this year will be particuarly challenging. Unfortunately, for those who are homeless or vulnerable, such as being on low income, this Christmas and winter period is going to be a real struggle.

The same way the cost-of-living crisis is hitting households, it is no different for us at Sanctus. The winter is always a challenging time of year for us, with many more people needing shelter, food and support as the days get colder and darker. This year will be one of our biggest challenges yet, as our bills are rising significant and we are now currently providing food and support for over 100 individuals a day.

We are willing to take this challenge head on, and respond to the growing need in the community. But, we can't do it without your help and we need this support now more than ever!

We appreciate that many people are struggling, but if you are in a position to make a donation at this time, it will mean so much and will make a huge impact on the vulnerable people in our community.

The below shows how much it costs us to deliver our frontline services

Sponsor a meal:

£3.89 - Will cover one of our normal freshly cooked, hot meals for someone in need this winter.

£5.62 - Will cover one of our special festive meals being served across the Christmas and New Year period.

£19.02 - Will cover two normal meals and two special festive meals.

£28.10 - Will cover a special festive meal on each of the five days they will be served.

Sponsor life-changing support:

£10.00 - Will provide someone with the initial support they need to access help.

£15.00 - Will offer someone a needs assessment to ensure early intervention.

£25.00 - Will provide a specialist advice and support session to help someone to turn their life around.

£100.00 - Will provide someone with 1:1 support across multiple sessions to help with obtaining accommodation, addiction support, benefits issues and returning to work.