Christmas means different things to different people. For many of us it is a chance to get together with friends and family to enjoy a party, exchange presents, and eat and drink more than we should. For others it is a religious festival of great significance. And for some it is about time away from work, hunkering down in the warmth, and being pleased to stay inside and be cosy.
For most of us, fortunately, it is not about being on the streets or alone. It is not about feeling rejected, or scared, or aware that you don't have the love that others do. It is not about facing a family life full of abuse or neglect.
Vulnerable young people, sadly, will be feeling frightened and desperate at Christmas. While most of us will be enjoying a Christmas dinner with loved ones, homeless young people will be cold, hungry and lonely. They also risk being targeted by unscrupulous people who know only too well that homeless young people can be manipulated and exploited. But can help them. This Christmas, as every year, it will provide homeless and vulnerable young people with a warm room for the night. It will also give these young people a Christmas dinner in the company of people who really care about them.
Year-long, Centrepoint helps homeless and vulnerable young people successfully turn their lives around by offering wide-ranging support, including advice on healthcare, education and benefits. Centrepoint also works with other organisations, and lobbies on behalf of young people. It helps vulnerable young people realise that life isn't hopeless and that they have things to look forward to.
In order to help these young people, Centrepoint urgently needs to raise funds this festive season. While you are looking forward to a happy, secure and loving Christmas, why not give something back to those who need it most? What you give will provide a home for Christmas as well as support and practical help for vulnerable young people and make a real difference to their lives.
Christmas appeal
Centrepoint works with homeless young people, helping out with accommodation, health, training and employment. Its work is particularly needed at Christmas. The charity's Christmas appeal will ensure that young people don't spend the festive season alone, cold and hungry. They need to know people care enough to make sure they are safe and warm, and have hope for the future. For more information about Centrepoint, and to donate, simply go to centrepoint.org.uk/guardian
