Catching Lives launches Winter Appeal

Catching Lives has launched its winter fundraising appeal to help people who are homeless with day centre services and support 7 days a week.

The charity is calling on the local community to help end homelessness in Canterbury and East Kent by donating via the Winter Appeal JustGiving page.

Tasmin Maitland, Chief Executive of Catching Lives, said: “Winter is an even more challenging time of year for people who are homeless, and we need your help to offer each person the services and support that can end their homelessness.

“Your donation will ensure that we can continue to give people a warm welcome every morning and to work in partnership to find safe places to live this winter.

“Our team is making a difference every day to the lives of people who are homeless in Canterbury and East Kent, and it’s only possible thanks to the continuing support of our community.”

Catching Lives works with more than 500 individuals each year, seeing an average of 36 people at its daily drop-in. The charity works closely with Canterbury City Council, Porchlight, Rising Sun, Forward Trust and other agencies to provide an effective response to homelessness that meets the needs of the people it supports.

The day centre offers breakfast and a freshly cooked hot lunch 365 days of the year. A donation of £8 could pay for breakfast and lunch for a week for one person, while £40 could do the same for a month. £10 could pay for essential toiletries for people sleeping rough, or £25 could pay for a weatherproof sleeping bag.

A Catching Lives client said: “Catching Lives have been a life-saver, and I mean that literally. The support, advice, facilities and simply being there to listen have got me through the shock of becoming homeless and given me hope that it won't always be this way.” 

You can help Catching Lives continue to bring people hope by donating this winter. Visit justgiving.com/campaign/winterappeal25.