We’re offering warmth, welcome, hope and support this Christmas

This Christmas, thousands of people in our communities are facing poverty, homelessness and isolation. Families are wondering how they’ll get through the week. Others are going days on end without hearing another voice.  

The Salvation Army Christmas present appeal  

The Salvation Army is calling on people who can afford to share love and hope this Christmas by donating new toys to its Christmas Present Appeal, giving children who would otherwise go without a gift to open on Christmas Day. The Christmas Present Appeal helps families who are already making impossible choices between food, heating, and bills.   

Last year, thanks to the kindness of our supporters, more than 74,000 Christmas gifts were lovingly shared by many of The Salvation Army churches and centres across the UK.  

Some local churches have already started to accept donations, but not all Salvation Army centres will run a Christmas present appeal, so it is important to check what your local Salvation Army needs. Visit salvationarmy.org.uk/christmas-present-appeal for more information and to find your nearest Salvation Army. 

Christmas food 

If your local Salvation Army church is not running a present appeal, there are other ways to support our Christmas work.  

Many Salvation Army centres will provide food parcels for people who are homeless or struggling financially, organise Christmas meals, and offer company and friendship to people who are isolated. 

At Christmas, Salvation Army centres become places of warmth and welcome, where over 5,100 meals were shared last year with people who might have otherwise gone without. 

Donate to support our work at Christmas 

People can also donate what they can afford to help The Salvation Army be here for the people in our communities who need the most help at Christmas, by clicking here

The Salvation Army’s Major Kerry Coke said:  

“Right now, people are feeling under pressure like never before. 

“Salvation Army churches and community centres are offering warmth, welcome, hope and practical support to the people who need it most. Whether providing a hot meal on a cold night to people who are forced to sleep rough, or gifts for children who would otherwise go without, we are here to make sure no one has to struggle alone. We’ve been doing this for 161 years and this Christmas we’re more needed than ever. 

“In previous years, we have been humbled by the generosity of the people who have donated gifts, food, money and time. If you can afford to, we would be so grateful for your support to help The Salvation Army be here for the people who are facing poverty, isolation and homelessness this Christmas.” 

Click here for more information and to find your nearest Salvation Army.