Tooting resident Josie Gaunt of local charity Evolve Housing & Support tells us how Tooting residents can help the homeless over the Christmas period.

I have been part of the Evolve Housing & Support team for four months now and I know that this Christmas I will feel especially grateful for the time spent with my family and friends, home cooked meals and thoughtful presents I am going to give, and hopefully receive! I know that amongst the merriment and celebration I will spare a thought for the thousands of homeless people in London on Christmas Day and hope that they also experience some kindness and comfort over the festive period.

In Tooting and surrounding boroughs I have noticed an increase in people sitting outside tube stations and under bridges with very few possessions, often reading the paper or playing Sudoku. Although these people deserve our thoughts and attention throughout the year I feel that the winter months and festive period is when we should do more than just think about these people and take action. Homelessness is a huge issue facing our community and although at times it feels too big to tackle, by giving just an hour or two of your time to this cause can make such a difference.

Here are a few ways you can help this Christmas.
 

Donate a present

Every year the fundraising team sets out to provide each of our residents a Christmas present. It is my mission as part of the fundraising team to ensure each of our service users gets a present to open this Christmas – that’s 700 presents! If you would like to donate a gift we are looking for:

• Posh chocolates
• Toiletry sets
• New gloves & scarves
• Hats

Contact me at josie.gaunt@evolvehousing.org.uk for details of our head office by South Wimbledon Station and drop off times.

Volunteer with us

We have secured places for volunteers to collect at train stations all over London this Christmas. If you fancy donning a Santa hat and Evolve collection bucket whilst playing some banging Christmas tunes this December please contact hannah.ward@evolvehousing.org.uk for volunteering opportunities. All money raised goes directly to helping homeless people rebuild their lives by funding our life-changing support programmes.
 

Fundraise through your business

Could you use your business to help the homeless? Simply select a product or service and decide on an amount you’d like to donate from its sale price. How about donating 20p from your Christmas coffee? Last year the Rose and Crown donated £1 from each Christmas pizza sale and countless others are getting involved. Contact me directly for more details of fundraising through your business at josie.gaunt@evolvehousing.org.uk.

Otherwise, please help raise awareness by following us on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter. 

This article would not be possible without the support of our fantastic Community Partners. Click here to find out more.