19th December 2023
Sanctuary Supported Living
Members of River Church donated gifts to Sanctuary Supported Living residents
Residents of Sanctuary Supported Living’s Cavendish Lodge and Withipoll Street, two supported housing services for homeless people in Ipswich, are feeling festive after receiving a generous donation of Christmas gifts and treats from a local church.
Residents of Cavendish Lodge and Withipoll Street received a total of 37 donated gift bags from members of River Church in Ipswich, who have been taking part in the 'Love Christmas' campaign. The campaign is a national initiative involving thousands of churches and other local organisations, who donate 'Bags of Kindness' containing festive food, treats and gifts, to help put smiles on the faces of people in need at Christmas.
Staff at Cavendish Lodge and Withipoll Street help residents, who would otherwise be homeless or at risk of homelessness, to develop the skills and confidence they need to live independently. They also offer personalised support with areas such as mental health, substance misuse, budgeting, and accessing education, training and employment.
"We’d like to say a big thank you for their kindness and generosity."
Katie Millar, a Project Worker at the services, said: "We are so grateful to the members of River Church, and we’d like to say a big thank you to them for their kindness and generosity. The bags of kindness have brought a lot of joy and happiness to the people we support, especially during this challenging time. They can’t afford to treat themselves to nice food at Christmas, and might otherwise have nothing to open on the day, so it's wonderful to see the local community coming together to support each other and spread some festive cheer."
For more information about Sanctuary Supported Living’s services for people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness, see our latest news or find a service near you
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