Homeless charity makes a Christmas wish list for would-be Santas

The homeless of Plymouth are often given the briefest of thoughts as Christmas approaches, despite the age-old suggestion that it is a time of goodwill to all men - and women, for that matter.

Organisations like PATH and Shekinah take on the role of little helpers, offering a decent meal, health checks and essential presents rather than frivolous ones as the winter takes hold.

Throughout the year, staff at Shekinah Mission - now at their new and larger base at Stonehouse Creek Community Centre after moving from their original home in Bath Street - work to support people who are left without homes, sleep rough on the streets, sofa-surf with friends and relatives.

The support can come in obvious forms, like a hot meal, but also a shower, clothing, drug and alcohol advice, GP service and - most important of all - a place of safety.

Each winter staff also prepare for the biting cold and the difficulties it brings for those people who don't have a constant roof over their heads. Here, they need a little help from the Plymouth public whose generosity can go a very long way and some small items which may seem ordinary to others, warmly accepted by those in real need.

In his recent blog John Hamblin, chief executive of Shekinah said that in previous years the staff used to 'play down' Christmas "for fear of upsetting people and apart from Christmas day would not even have decorations up".

He added: "I guess what brought about the change was talking to people who were clear that whilst it was difficult, to be in a safe space that was decorated to reflect the time of year helped them feel normal and deserving.

Anyone who has read my blogs will know that I have voiced for many years that the people we support deserve better in an environment that reflects a sense of normality as appose to the stereotypical environment that people experiencing homelessness have had to suffer over the years.

"So yes, we will be decorating our new home, and we will be celebrating Christmas in a safe space for people to enjoy the Christmas period without feeling that they do not deserve it."

If you would like to make the Christmas period a little brighter then currently the charity said it is in need of particular items.

John told PlymouthLive: "We are in need of rucksacks, sleeping bags, men's underwear and toiletries.

"In relation to food we would prefer people making a cash donation to us so we can buy what we need and we don’t end up with a pasta mountain!"

Shekinah's 2024 Christmas Campaign has also been launched and people can help the city's homeless with donations which will directly help provide support to individuals, 365 days of the year.

A spokesperson for the charity said donations go towards support those who are currently homeless, assist them find accommodation, provide training for those with skill development needs, help people secure employment, offer support through restorative justice and assist individuals to stay in their own accommodation.

For items they can be presented at the Shekinah base at the community centre in Kings Road.

Donations to support the charity this Christmas can be made here.

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