Christmas Campaign Makes a Difference for Ipswich Winter Night Shelter

A charity campaign set up to support those who are experiencing or on the brink of homelessness this winter has led to a donation to Ipswich Night Shelter.

The Hope at Christmas 2020 campaign was launched by Hopestead in December and invited cash donations from the public as well as items such as food and clothing vouchers. Collections took place across East Anglia, including in Woodbridge, Mildenhall, and Bury St Edmunds, where people gave generously.

Now, thanks to the kindness of people across the area, the campaign has been able to make a donation of  £500 to Ipswich Winter Night Shelter to help them to provide food and resources for their night shelter guests this winter.

The Ipswich Winter Night Shelter provides breakfast, lunch and a home cooked, two course, evening meal every day.  Every guest is provided with new pyjamas and new slippers.  A representative of Ipswich Winter Night Shelter said: “Thank you so much for all you have done to support us!”

Marie-Claire Delbrouque, MD of Hopestead commented:  “Last year was challenging for all of us and we have been absolutely thrilled and moved by the generosity and kindness of everyone who has donated to our campaign. Thank you so much; I can assure you that every donation makes a real difference.

“This campaign is just one step towards achieving our overall goal of ending homelessness in the East of England.  Now more than ever, there is a vital need to work together with like-minded partners to achieve this.”

The Hopestead team collected donations across East Anglia in December and donated to grassroots organisations and charities in the region, including the Salvation Army which received food, treats, toys and toiletries to distribute at Christmas.

Pet food, treats, toys, blankets, hi-visibility coats and collars, were given to Street Vets, a charity which delivers free veterinary care to pet owners who are experiencing homelessness.  And, homelessness charities in Norwich were also beneficiaries of the campaign.

Marie-Claire Delbrouque added: “This campaign has been a huge success and has already made a positive impact across the East of England.  We are grateful to everyone who supported us, donated, and volunteered. 

 “We look forward to continuing this great work in 2021 and beyond, because we believe that everyone deserves a place to call home.”

 You can find out more by visiting www.hopestead.org or Hopestead on Twitter @_hopestead or Instagram @_hopestead and Facebook Hopestead | Facebook