Hundreds of generous donations over the Christmas period means we can continue supporting more of Reading’s most vulnerable over the winter months.
Our festive fundraising activities, which included the sold-out Carols by Candlelight, our Christmas appeal and events organised by friends of Launchpad, including the Christmas single released by local band Third Lung, have raised almost £40,000!
Vicki Lewis, Fundraising manager at Launchpad, said: “We have been blown away by the generosity of local people responding to our Christmas Appeal which has raised a magnificent £18,427.
“This, coupled with the money raised by Carols by Candlelight, and the ongoing kindness and support we received each year from The Reading Haydn Choir, Reading Festival Chorus Choir and the Rivarate Choir, takes the total to almost £40,000.
“We are all having to endure inflated utility bills, pricier trips to the supermarket and increased travel costs. But this winter, the rise in the cost of living will leave some facing a worse fate – losing their home.
“Our support staff are seeing an increased number of people who are unemployed or on low wages unable able to make ends meet – and with added complications such as debt, poor mental health and addiction – rough sleeping this winter remains a real prospect for so many.
“Our temporary homes offer warm, clean and safe accommodation for up to 104 people who are homeless for periods of six to twelve months. During this time, each client works through a personalised support plan with a member of Launchpad staff to tackle whatever is holding them back.
“We would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who has made a donation to Launchpad over the last couple of months and those who give regularly to ensure we can continue providing vital support all year round to vulnerable people in Reading who are homeless or at risk of losing their home.”