TikTok sensations donate £1,000 to Winton Salvation Army homelessness work

The Winton Salvation Army on Sunday received a generous donation of £1,000 from viral TikTok and Instagram sensations and brothers, Sam and Tobias Strongman. The funds were raised through a dedicated December social media fundraiser focused on homelessness, supported by the brothers’ combined online followership of over 160,000. 

The donation was presented during a joyful meeting filled with stories of the brothers’ busking journeys across the UK. Sam and Tobias shared their experiences of connecting with homeless individuals, gifting them care packages, and purchasing meals, often with the help of supportive vendors and the public. 

Inspiring generosity from a digital platform 

James Hill, leader of The Salvation Army in Winton, said the “incredibly generous gift” from the Strongman brothers will bolster the church and charity’s work in supporting people who are homeless. 

“People like Sam and Tobias show that people really do care for others. They have given so much of themselves. Their social media platforms are a powerful way they can influence others with their values and generosity. Combined, they hold a powerful, but positive platform, advocating for vulnerable people and encouraging others to share in that compassion.” 

Direct impact on local homeless support 

The donation will directly support the church and charity’s weekly homelessness services. This includes a Monday evening meal for 30-40 people and a dedicated foot care clinic, as well as daily provisions of food, clothing, sleeping bags, and toiletries. Throughout the week, the centre offers emergency support including food parcels, clothing, sleeping bags, toiletries, and access to bathing facilities. 

Heart for people who are homeless 

Speaking on their motivation, Sam and Tobias said: “We chose to support homelessness as we are buskers and often meet and talk to a lot of people who are homeless while we are out singing. We know when we get to go home at the end of a cold winter busk some people don’t have that reality. The Salvation Army in Winton does incredible work and they are local to us so we wanted to show support to such an incredible charity making a real difference. And it was worth the time.” 

The Salvation Army emphasises that its work is only possible through community partnership.  

James said, “As they thanked us for what we do, we said to Sam and Tobias that we can only do what we do, with the help of people like them and their supporters. It must be a community and national partnership.” 

The services of The Salvation Army in Winton continue to be a critical lifeline. To learn more about their work and to donate in support of their efforts visit their website: Winton | The Salvation Army. The church and charity on 1 Latimer Road strives to provide a comprehensive blend of immediate relief and long-term support to its community.  

Their work is structured around several key areas such as practical & emergency support, and community wellbeing & social Connection. They foster a strong sense of community by hosting events for over-60s and running a café for low-cost family meals. Furthermore, they have created a sensory garden, a tranquil haven that enhances emotional and social well-being.