Some images courtesy of Atul Patel Photography.

A safe home is a basic human right, essential for a happy and healthy life. Unfortunately, this isn’t always the reality, especially during winter.

At the end of 2023, more than 300,000 in England were homeless, including 140,000 children. Most were in temporary accommodation, but almost 4,000 were sleeping on the streets.

The situation in Coventry is really challenging with the city growing 4% year on year. This has led to:

• A 148% rise in the number of rough sleepers since 2022, compared to 20% nationally

• An increase of more than 50% in temporary accommodation since the start of 2024

• 1,140 households in temporary accommodation – the highest ever.

• A doubling in the number of people seeking our help – from 199 in April-October 2022, to 407 in the same period in 2023

That’s why your donations will make a big difference. Our Winter Appeal 2024-2025 is vital for providing help and support for those in need throughout the winter.

The appeal will also fund our annual Christmas Day event which provides a two course dinner, refreshments, presents and entertainment on the big day. Our volunteers have been providing Christmas Day meals for more than 30 years. Year on year, more than 100 people attend the event at the Methodist Central Hall in Coventry – the only event of its type in the city – with volunteers also making several takeaway meals.

PREVIOUS COMMENTS FROM OUR CHRISTMAS DAY EVENT:

“Much needed & thank you, the best part was the food, people, singing & entertainment, bring on Xmas 2024!”

“I enjoyed the Christmas Dinner & Bingo”

“Everybody went out of their way to make sure everybody was cared for regards food & drink, so that all of us were made to feel welcome”

YOUR DONATION REALLY HELPS:

• £10 buys a starter kit of essentials like toiletries, underwear or sanitary products for a client.

• £15 buys a Christmas meal with daytime refreshments.

• £25 buys a week of basic groceries.

• £50 buys a resettlement pack of bedding, towels or cooking equipment for a resident moving on to independent living.

We hope our appeal will help to bring some much-needed joy and comfort not only on Christmas Day but throughout the winter. Thank you for your support.