Last year the animated family film That Christmas written by Richard Curtis was released. A line in the film really struck me:
“I always think that Christmas is a bit like an emotional magnifying glass. If you feel loved and happy, Christmas will make you feel even happier and more loved. But if you feel lonely or unloved, the magnifier gets to work and makes all those bad things feel bigger and worse.”
The quote captures something really true: Christmas magnifies what we are feeling. This is what makes it a fun and joyous time of year but also what makes it extra hard for those who are sad or struggling.
Festive surge in interest
And this is why people often think about people who are homeless far more at this time of year. I have worked with people who are homeless for over 30 years and every December you notice a huge surge in interest. Suddenly our work becomes more visible and appreciated. Christmas is indeed a magnifier.
And of course this brings lot of positive opportunities to share messages and seek support. But its also vital to remember that homelessness is not something to just think about at Christmas. People become homeless all year round and it can often be harder for them in February and March than it is in December.
Hope into Action
This is why I love working for Hope into Action, an organisation which gives housing and support to people who have been homeless all year round.
We don’t just offer help for a few weeks of the year. And we don’t just offer advice, guidance or food. We offer something concrete and long-lasting: a roof over people’s heads for up to 2 years with both professional support and the friendship of a local church community.
Home for Christmas
Andrew is an example of someone who we have helped find a home for Christmas. For 3 months he was sleeping rough in Peterborough in the park by the Lido, cold and alone. He was in a bad way and his mental health was deteriorating.
But he came to Hope into Action and moved into one our homes. His perspective has been transformed, and he is now working in security and is thriving. In a recent interview with BBC local radio he said that coming to Hope into Action saved his life.
Please watch Andrew’s story:
Hope into Action does not receive central government funding and are not contracted to any local authorities: our work is dependent on the kindness of local volunteers and the generosity of donors.
And whilst we work all year round, Christmas is a vitally important time for us.
Due to support we have received from the Reed Foundation, during the Big Give Week all donations are doubled. £25 becomes £50, £50 becomes £100.
One donation. Twice the impact.
Please consider supporting our work and magnify your generosity this Christmas.
Grace + Truth 