What is Crisis at Christmas?
Crisis at Christmas is a campaign that helps us provide warm meals, shelter, support and companionship at Christmas to those experiencing homelessness. More than that, the impact of Crisis at Christmas lasts long after Christmas as guests are introduced to Crisis’ year-round training, education and support to leave homelessness behind for good.
What did Crisis at Christmas 2022 involve?
This Christmas we provided 3,484 people with support and this was made possible by an incredible team of over 3,400 volunteers.
We provided hotel accommodation to 451 people who would otherwise have been sleeping rough in London and we supported hundreds more people in insecure accommodation across England, Wales and Scotland, providing warmth, companionship, food, and advice.
The last year was particularly difficult for our services and staff, as it was for so many. With thousands of people at the sharp end of poverty being pushed into homelessness, we knew we had to be there for those who needed us this Christmas.
And it doesn’t stop there. Thanks to our supporters, we work with people every day of the year to support them on their journey out of homelessness. And it really is a journey, that is why it is so important there are people like you prepared to stand with people facing homelessness. Until everyone in our society has a place they can call home.
Where are the Crisis at Christmas locations in London?
In 2022, we opened four hubs in London which opened from Christmas Eve until 28 December.
We are really pleased that, once again, we extended our Christmas/winter service offer of day centres and hotels in London for people who would otherwise be sleeping rough across London. This allowed us to offer a more comprehensive and tailored service to 2,175 guests, from support such as food and new clothes, to long term help with housing, training, health and accommodation.
Many services are closed during the Christmas week, so Crisis can offer a vital lifeline to people on the brink or experiencing homelessness.
1,724 people attended our day centres in London over the Christmas period.
What about Crisis at Christmas in other regions of Great Britain?
Everyone who comes to Crisis is a valued individual, treated with respect, listened to and cared for – and it’s the start of specialist support that lasts all year round. From skills training to help with housing and employment, people get the support they need to leave homelessness behind and find a safe and secure home.
Services and activities:
• Hot meals/Christmas lunch/snacks (centre dependent)
• Hotel accommodation for those most in need
• Year-round support, including training and education
• Companionship and support from volunteers
• Health and wellbeing programmes
• Internet access and support to get online
• Busy activities programme including creative sessions, football games, yoga and more
• Advice and support from Crisis caseworkers to leave homelessness behind for good
How can I support Crisis at Christmas?
There are many ways you can support Crisis at Christmas - you can donate, volunteer, or fundraise.