THE team at JF Hornby has doubled up on its festive pledge to provide food for the homeless.
We joined forces with the Furness Homeless Action Group last year to supply everything needed for its annual Christmas Day dinner.
This year the partnership has been renewed – with a pledge to cover the cost of both Christmas and Boxing Day meals.
Paul Hornby, Managing Director at J F Hornby, said: “We’re delighted to be supporting Furness Homeless Action Group again this Christmas. The group’s work is vital to the local community and their commitment to improving people’s lives is admirable.
“Being able to play a part in helping them create a welcoming environment for those who might otherwise be on their own during the festive period is something we’re incredibly proud of.”
Furness Homeless Action Group provide between 80 and 100 hot meals over Christmas Day and Boxing Day for people who are homeless or struggling.
Manager, Christine Bainbridge, said: “We’re incredibly grateful to J F Hornby for supporting us once again this year. For a small charity, their backing has freed up not only much-needed funds, but also precious time during an already demanding period.
“Thanks to their support, we can once again offer the lifeline of an open door on Christmas Day and Boxing Day, providing warm, safe surroundings when they are needed most.”
Furness Homeless Action Group first began as a Christmas shelter 37 years ago, offering people a place to sleep over the course of the festive period. Now, the group has 14 accommodation rooms available all year round, and offers hot meals and gifts to those in need over Christmas.
Christine said: “Christmas can be a very lonely time of year for lots of people, and we are here to help alleviate that loneliness for those who wish to join us. We always try to ensure it is a joyous day, and the atmosphere is always lovely.
“Some of our residents have never experienced a ‘proper’ Christmas before and are truly amazed when they wake to find a sack full of gifts under the tree. The warm atmosphere and the support from the staff are amazing; we like to think it has a family feel to the day.
“Christmas is a time where people may reflect more about those less fortunate and we’re very grateful that many think of us. Any donations we receive at this time don’t just help at Christmas; they help to keep us going all year round.”
