St Botolph’s Advent & Christmas Charities

Alms given and collections taken during Advent and at Carol Services are divided between our chosen charities, which once again this year reflect two issues particularly highlighted by the Covid-19 pandemic: homelessness and mental health.

Veterans Aid’s vision of a society in which all veterans can live with dignity and independence is only achievable because donors and supporters make it possible. Recently that vision became a reality for one ex-serviceman who came to them 10 years ago, after a period of begging on the streets nearly broke him. He never forgot what the Veterans Aid team had done for him and wrote to express his thanks – and to share pictures of his wedding. They showed a proud man, glowing with happiness, reunited with his family, on the threshold of a new life. The charity has been fully operational through the pandemic to make sure there were more stories like this

£100 saves one veteran from a first night on the street. Here’s how:

• £35 pays for a Veterans Aid Ops Team member to get a homeless veteran to a place of safety.

• £40 buys a night’s clean, safe accommodation and keeps them off the street.

• £15 pays for emergency medical and hygiene needs.

• £10 buys a hot meal and drink for the first night.

For more information please visit their website click here

MIND The Government, the NHS and mental wellbeing charities agree that the Covid-19 pandemic has brought on a mental health emergency the effects of which are likely to be felt for a long time. 2021 has been another year of anxiety and uncertainty for all of us – but those already living with mental health problems have faced extra challenges, and more people will need help as the situation continues. MIND provides advice and support to empower anyone experiencing a mental health problem, as well as campaigning to improve services, raise awareness and promote understanding.

A donation of £20 could run the charity’s online peer support community
‘Side by Side’ for an hour, helping people connect with others and feel less alone. £40 could help its Infoline answer calls, providing someone with vital support and information.

For more information please visit their website click here

Please give as generously as you are able at this time:

• Cash donations may be placed in the alms boxes, or handed to a member of staff at any time. If you are a UK taxpayer please complete a Gift Aid envelope so we can claim back a further 25% from HMRC.

• Card/contactless donations can be made at any time via the device on the table at the back of church, and can be Gift Aided.

• Credit card donations can be made via our website and can be Gift Aided.

• Or by using this dedicated QR code