Dorset people experiencing homelessness have received a pre-Christmas boost after shoppers donated hundreds of life-enhancing items.
The donations came after colleagues at Tesco’s Poole Fleets Extra store opted to support YMCA Bournemouth’s Prezzies for Rezzies campaign.
This year’s campaign, in partnership with and the HealthBus Trust, is encouraging members of the public to write Christmas cards and donate gifts for residents of supported housing services and people experiencing homelessness.
The Tesco store urged its customers to get behind the campaign, and 100 bags of toiletries, sheets, bedding and blankets were quickly donated to the good cause.
Christopher Wakefield, Head of Fundraising and Partnerships at YMCA Bournemouth, said: “We’re so grateful to the staff and customers of Tesco’s Poole Fleets Extra store.
“Their response to our campaign has been fantastic. Not only will it help to make a difference to many people’s lives, but it will also show them that they aren’t alone – there are many people out there who care.
“We know that the festive time can be hard for many people for various reasons, but these generous donations, which might well be the only presents they receive next month, will go a long way to making the time so much better.”
YMCA Bournemouth offers short-term supported housing for 114 individual men and women between the ages of 18 and 65, across four projects. Its aim is to equip its residents with the skills and confidence they need to ‘move on’ to independent living and a positive long-term future.
Shaun Sennett, manager at the Poole Fleets Extra store, said: “The work that YMCA Bournemouth do all year round is amazing. They are so dedicated to helping so many people get their lives back on track.
“Whenever we have asked our shoppers to support a local good cause, they’ve always responded brilliantly, and this appeal was no exception. They’ve been incredibly generous, and we’re all grateful for that. They really have made a difference.”
The Prezzies for Rezzies campaign, now in its 18th year, is still open. Among the gifts that can be donated are reusable cups, water bottles, gloves, scarves, hats, socks and food (no alcohol).
Also being accepted are sweets, stationery, art materials, calendars, diaries, colouring pencils, paints, adult colouring books, toiletries, gift sets, hair accessories, DVDs, games, shop vouchers, and puzzles. All gifts must be wrapped in advance of being donated.
Collection points are located at three places across Dorset – The Junction Centre in Broadstone, Delta House on Westover Road, and The Stourvale Centre in Bournemouth.
For further information and to donate, go online at https://www.ymcabournemouth.org.uk/housing/prezzies-for-rezzies/
