Charitable
donations in the winter months are essential. By making a small contribution,
you could make a huge difference to individuals and families facing an
otherwise bleak winter.
In this quick
read, we look at how you can help.
Food
If you want to
donate locally, then foodbanks are always looking for donations. More and more
people are coming to rely on foodbanks to provide for their families. And this
winter, with the high energy costs, for many it can often be a choice between
heating a home or missing a meal.
Food parcels offer
people staples such as rice, pasta, tea, coffee and cereal. They can also
contain cleaning products and toiletries. Avoid donating perishable items such
as fresh fruit and veg, milk and homemade foods. Pick up a few extras during
your grocery shop and drop them at collection points which can be found at
supermarkets or community hubs, such as libraries.
While you may be
tempted to donate seasonal items such as mince pies or Christmas cakes, it’s
best to check with your local foodbank to see what is really needed.
Check out The Trussell Trust to find your nearest foodbank.
Winter essentials
For people
experiencing homelessness, low-income families, or vulnerable people, having
the right clothes and bedding is imperative.
Homeless charities
will need additional coats, gloves, scarves, hats and other items of winter
wear to support their clients. Bedding items such as waterproof sleeping bags, blankets
and pillows are also needed.
If you’d like to
make cash donations, check out charities such as Shelter or St
Mungo’s. To sponsor
a room for the winter, check out this Centrepoint campaign.
Many local
charities that support families would appreciate warm children’s clothing, toys
and games. Look at Home Start which has branches all over the country.
Your time
Charities need people,
and your time is one of the most underestimated ways to offer support, yet is
so important. Whether you want to do something hands-on such as volunteering at
a foodbank or kitchen, hold a Christmas-themed fundraiser or offer a few hours
talking on the telephone, your help is invaluable.
Charities such as Age UK work to support elderly people experiencing isolation
and loneliness. You can offer 30 minutes a week to their telephone friendship
service. Just having someone to talk to or a call to look forward to can
provide a huge emotional boost to someone who spends their days totally alone.
Do you support
an Torquay charity? How can we provide some much-needed winter help?
Comment below, we’d love to find out more.