With an estimated 41,000 people in Luton facing social isolation this winter, the need for community-based support to tackle loneliness has never been greater.
SIG Penrose Roots provides a vital lifeline for people experiencing social isolation in Luton. Our community spaces, including a church hall, heated greenhouse, and indoor workshops, are havens during the coldest, darkest months when loneliness often feels overwhelming.
For many, Roots is the only place they feel safe to socialise outside their home.
• Hosting Christmas dinner at a local church hall for 60+ people who would have spent the day alone.
• Donating food parcels to local food banks and community kitchens.
• Running festive arts and crafts workshops.
• Organising winter walks and nature activities.
• Supporting people in attending community celebrations together.
• Providing hot meals and warm spaces throughout winter.
Roots is an entirely donor-funded service, and we urgently need your support to keep our doors open and services running this winter so vulnerable people don’t spend the festive season alone.
£5 could provide seeds and garden supplies for our winter growing activities or supply fresh food parcels for people accessing community food hubs.
£10 could provide free Christmas meals and drinks for people accessing our services, support travel costs for those socially isolated with limited mobility, or fund essentials, gifts, or craft packs to someone living alone to lift their spirits.
£25 could cover weekly indoor activities, including art therapy, woodwork, and winter planting sessions so that people can stay socially connected and warm, or pay for rent and heating for our warm spaces throughout the cold months.
We hope the testimonies below of people who have found fulfilling lives through Roots inspire you to give!
After struggling with mental health and substance use, Joe found a community at Roots in 2016. He now helps welcome newcomers while maintaining his well-being through our gardening, training, and social groups.
"Roots is a wonderful place, and I feel blessed to be able to come here. People don't judge, which I am grateful for. I love the people at Roots." - Joe, Roots Member
After mental health and substance use challenges led to hospitalisations and isolation, Colin joined Roots in 2023 and continues to find connection and support through our gardening activities and weekly groups.
"I have enjoyed meeting people and being part of a community. Here, I find I am finally living.” - Colin, Roots Member
After facing mental health and housing challenges, Roots member Holly joined in 2021 and found community, stable housing, and improved well-being through our weekly activities and support services. She now feels accepted and looks forward to her weekly Roots sessions!
"Roots is a really friendly, fun and welcoming place. It is somewhere to make friends and boost your confidence. I always leave feeling positive." - Holly, Roots Member
Together, we can guarantee that no one must face the winter months alone. Please donate today to help us continue fostering community, connection, and hope—even in the coldest months.
Read more about SIG Penrose roots here: https://socialinterestgroup.org.uk/our-services/sig-penrose-community-based-recovery-services-cbrs/
* Charities pay a small fee for our service. Find out how much it is and what we do for it.
