Caritas Salford goes digital
One of Salford's oldest charities is going digital for the first time in its 100-year history to launch its annual Advent Appeal fundraising drive as the pandemic impacts churchgoing collections.
Caritas in the Diocese of Salford operates numerous projects across Greater Manchester and Lancashire, supporting children and families, those who are homeless, older people and the isolated, and those seeking asylum and refuge. Services are open to all and based on need. More than 1,500 homeless people are helped every year, with Caritas relying on practical donations in churches and schools for its Advent Appeal - its biggest fundraising drive of the year. With collections from local churches virtually impossible due
to coronavirus restrictions, the charity has turned to digital channels and social media this year - launching its film 'No room at the inn - the #MiracleofKindness' on Sunday 15 November - Pope Francis' World Day of the Poor.
Watch the film at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=akLrjbyUgYg&feature=youtu.be
Cold Feet actor John Thomson provides the voice-over for the film and viewers will meet Rochelle, Quinton and Nikki, who explain how their lives have been transformed and how they have each been helped out of homelessness. With the support of Caritas: Rochelle and her three-year-old son were sofa-surfing with friends and relatives but are now looking forward to their first, settled Christmas in their own home. Quinton, who lived in a tent in a supermarket car park, now has his own flat. Nikki and her two children, who were living all together in an attic room, are today in a comfortable place they can call a family home.
Mark Wiggin, Director of Caritas Salford, said: "To respond to the truly challenging year of 2020, we have had to take unprecedented steps and launch our first integrated, digital fundraising campaign. Our message is simple - in a world where you can be anything, be kind. When there's 'no room at the inn' for people today, Caritas will support them to get back into a home, back on their feet and feeling hope for their future."
To give £10 without hearing from Caritas, text: BEKINDNOINFO to 70460.