This Christmas we are supporting two charities - one national, the other local. 

 

The national charity is The Children's Society, which we would normally support at our Christingle service.  This year we are sadly unable to hold Christingle due to the restrictions, but the invaluable work of The Children's Society must continue.  The Children's Society works to transform the hopes and happiness of young people facing abuse, exploitation and neglect.  They support them through their most serious life challenges and campaign tirelessly for the big social changes that will improve the lives of those who need hope most.  You can find out more about their work here. 

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The other charity is our local Street Pastors for Bishopstoke, Fair Oak and Horton Heath (BIFOHH).  Street Pastors exists for the benefit of the community, enriching the place we live in by patrolling every Friday evening, every week.  They listen to, care for and support those in need, those who are vulnerable, and those who would like to chat.  There are also School Pastors whose aims are similar to Street Pastors and who are present at local schools before, during or at the end of the school day.  

 

None of the above would be possible without the dedication and commitment of volunteers who turn out, come rain or shine, to enrich the community and instil a sense of value and worth to those they meet.  Street and School Pastors is a joint venture supported by the local churches.  Our church currently has two Street Pastors and some people waiting to train as School Pastors in the New Year.  The funds we raise this Christmas will help towards the costs of insurance, uniforms and training.  You can find out more about Street Pastors here.

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Our intention is to match last year's offering for The Children's Society and then give the remainder of the money we raise to BIFOHH Street Pastors.  You can donate to our Christmas Charity at any of our church services up to Sunday 10 January, including our special Christmas services, and online.

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Many thanks for whatever you are able to give - it is most appreciated at this difficult time.