poverty doesn’t take a break at CHRISTMAS

Life hasn’t been easy for the Collins family. While their neighbours were making plans to celebrate Christmas with a holiday or festive dinner, the Collins were worrying about how they could get through the week. The cupboards were empty, the bills piling up and they were close to losing their home due to rent arrears. The parent’s heart would break at the thought of their two children going without the basics, of growing up in poverty without the opportunities that all kids should have. Their daughter Becky knew that Christmas dinner would be baked beans on toast, the only thing the family could afford.

When the family received an eviction notice, they knew they needed help. With no money and nowhere else to go, they turned to their local Salvation Army. Together, the Army and the Collins family worked on a plan that addressed the family’s most serious issues, beginning with sorting out their living situation. They also accessed financial and family mentoring programmes, giving the parents the skills needed to look after both their children and the household. And with Christmas fast approaching, the family was provided with a Sallies ‘Christmas Hamper’ food parcel, and the children each received a small Christmas gift. They said this made a huge difference. This Christmas season, The Salvation Army will be called upon to give care to more than 17,000 families, providing support ranging from food parcels to counselling, accommodation and advocacy. You can care for families like the Collinses this Christmas. Please support our Christmas Appeal so that you can give hope to those who need it most.