Total DeliciousNess

As we near December and we are all out and about buying gifts for our loved ones, it’s often easy to forget that there are many people who are far less fortunate than us. Although there may be many reading this that haven’t had the best year, I am sure that there have been people around that have been there to lend an ear, or give a hug. Lots of people do not have that support.
This year, if you can, spare a moment to think of a way that you could make someone’s year a little better. It doesn’t have to be a grand gesture or cost lots of money. Often it is the little things that make a difference. Buy a homeless person a cup of tea to keep them warm on these freezing days that have come upon us. Offer to nip to the shop for an elderly neighbour who can’t get out in the snow.
Here are some other ways that you can help people less fortunate than you this festive season.

• The Salvation Army Christmas Present Appeal 2010

From the 20 November until 18 December 2010, members of the public are invited and encouraged to donate gifts for children, families, older people and the homeless. The gifts will be then be distributed to those in need in local communities.

Over many years, millions of children, young people, families and older people have already benefited from the gifts donated to The Salvation Army. By giving a gift to our Christmas Present Appeal you can make a real difference in someone’s life at Christmas!

• Crisis at Christmas 2010

Being homeless, freezing and hungry can make Christmas a desperate time – but a place at Crisis At Christmas can be the start of a whole new life.

Eight days, nine centres, 2,500 homeless guests, our special Christmas event needs your support.

Reserve a place for someone at our table – for just £23.35 per person – and you’ll be providing much more than a hot meal.

You will also be providing health checks, clothing and haircuts on the day and advice about housing and jobs, plus lasting help for those who need it on drinks and drugs.

• Refuge & Women’s Aid
  

You can donate to either of these charities or if you have a women’s shelter near you then why don’t you pay a visit and take some gifts for the children that are there with their mothers who have taken a step forward in sparing themselves and their families from domestic violence. They don’t have to be new toys. Maybe you’re having a clear out of toys before the new ones that Santa brings, as long as they’re in reasonable condition I’m sure that they will be most welcome. The same goes for children’s clothes and women’s clothes too. Often these families have left with just the clothes on their back.

You may now be wondering what I am doing this year to practice what I preach. I have packed up someclothes of Sam’s to send over to Africa with a friend of mine. They will be given to children who live in orphanges or who are in hospital over there. If you would like to donate some of your children’s clothes then please let me know. I will gladly accept them and pass them on.

I will now leave you with this beauty from my favourite Christmas film. I think it sums up what I’m getting at.

Ness x