Rucksack and shoebox appeal 2023

2 Nov 2023

Caring in Bristol Christmas Lunch at the Delta Hotel by Marriott

Last year we had the opportunity to work with Caring in Bristol, St Mungo’s, 1625 Independent People,  and the Delta Hotel by Marriott to put on a Christmas Lunch for people who are experiencing homelessness and/or facing financial crisis.
There was an offering of everything from a turkey dinner, curried meatballs, burger and chips and a Christmas present at the end.
The Christmas present at the end was the shoebox presents that people had kindly donated, and this year we are doing it again to try and bring some Christmas cheer.

As Winter approaches we are appealing to you to Help Bristol’s Homeless through our rucksack and shoebox appeal

For many, the festive period is the most wonderful time of the year, but for the street homeless, the winter months are the most challenging they will have to face each year.

During these months, the street homeless are subjected to cold and wet weather and have to face loneliness during a time meant for family and fellowship.

Over the years, we have learnt that with the right items, the rucksacks and shoeboxes you donate have become an essential survival tool and a gift of hope for the homeless.

We are so fortunate that there are so many generous people in our community, for instance, last year we had a 32-foot container full of rucksacks and shoeboxes (almost 500) that we helped distribute.

What can I fill the rucksack or shoebox with?

  • Cold weather sleeping bag
  • Thermal gloves, leggings, long-sleeved top, hat, socks,
  • Underwear (medium-sized)
  • kagool
  • Toiletries – toothbrush & toothpaste, body wash, deodorant, tissues, hairbrush etc
  • Hand warmers
  • Sanitary products
  • Edible treats – chocolate, sweets, biscuits etc
  • Tesco or Greggs £5-£10 vouchers
  • Hand sanitiser, face masks, anti-bacterial wipes

What do I do with it when it’s full?

We ask for them to be delivered to us at our Spring Street site, and along with Bristol Outreach Services for the Homeless, we’ll hand the rucksacks out to people on the street.

We ask for deliveries at Spring Street Monday to Saturday between 9:30 am and 6 pm.

All donations need to be with us by Friday, 22nd December.

Address: Spring Street, Bedminster, Bristol, BS3 4PZ
Please, contact us if you have any questions: contact@helpbristolshomeless.org

Thank you for supporting us!

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