300 referrals for help during Christmas as people continue to struggle across Preston
The Salvation Army in Preston received 300 referrals for support over the Christmas period, giving welcome relief to people struggling as everyday living costs remain high.
Ensuring people had a Christmas to remember, The Salvation Army in Preston provided more than 9,000 Christmas gifts to over 600 children from 300 families thanks to the generous donations received from the local community to the church and charity’s Christmas Present Appeal.
The church and community centres located on Harrington Street worked with social workers, homeless services and community groups to support people and families already struggling to put food on the table, heat their homes or pay their bills.
Major Debbie Eaton, church leader of The Salvation Army in Preston said: “Due to the consistently high costs in everyday prices, and increases in rent and energy bills, we are seeing more and more people rely on support from charities to help get them through day-to-day life with many low income households living hand to mouth, paycheck to paycheck.
“In the challenging times that everyone is facing we were overwhelmed with the generosity and compassion that was shown by our local community and the amount of donations that we received. As we make our way through this year we will continue to serve and be at the heart of our communities, supporting people who are struggling and giving hope and kindness to people that are in desperate need of it along with a helping hand."
A church and charity, The Salvation Army expresses its Christian faith by offering friendship, practical help and support to some of the most disadvantaged people in our communities. To help support The Salvation Army’s year-round work please visit: salvationarmy.org.uk/donate.