Over the next 12 months we will be focussing on a different area of Open Hands each month and highlighting the specific needs each area has. These will run alongside our Essential Items – which are needed all of the time – and urgent appeals – when we are running short of something unexpectedly.

We will update this page with resources for you to be able to engage in an easy and meaningful way, and in the month and area that calls to you.

September – We will be appealing for Warm Winter items to stock up ahead of the cold months.  Sleeping bags/coats/hats/gloves/scarves/blankets/socks are all items we will need during this time.

October – Sees us highlighting Food as the season turns towards Harvest and festivals happening in our schools, Churches and other organisations.

November – We will start to collect towards our Christmas Food Treat Hampers, to ensure supplies are in ready for us to distribute in December.

December – we will focus on highlighting our Give Today shop. You will be able to buy from here over the the days we are closed, to have ready to be delivered to us as soon as we are open again ensuring the shelves are stocked and ready to go!

Our emergency appeal for this month is for Warm Winter Items! and will run throughout September. Although please do continue to donate throughout the colder months of the year.

We recognise that the winter months can be very difficult for people who are struggling for food and clothing. We see a high demand for blankets and duvets for the home, and sleeping bags and blankets for people who are living on the streets, as well as winter clothing. We are keen to increase our supply of men’s coats and jumpers, as these are popular items in our Essentials Hub each week.

Therefore, we will be collecting the following key items, essential to keeping people warm in the cold months ahead:

• Duvets
• Pillows
• Blankets
• Sleeping Bags
• Men’s Coats and jumpers
• Socks
• Hats
• Scarves
• Gloves

If you are able, please encourage people in your community to get involved by sharing the appeal.

• Donate from your cupboards – have a clear out as you get your winter clothing out of storage and donate anything you no longer need.
• Buy as you shop – Bring them directly to the Open Hands Compassion Centre on a Tuesday or Thursday afternoon.
• Give today – Visit our online shop to find items that are needed for winter months

Every contribution helps us continue supporting those who rely on this vital service. Thank you for your generosity.

Help us promote this campaign

Appeal Resources

Here are a few resources you can use to promote this campaign within your Church, school, company or amongst family and friends. If there is anything else you think would help, message via the form below.

How can we help you, help us!

We would love to hear from you on how we can help you engage with these appeals. Do you need a donations bin, or signage. Do you want to link with us on Social Media, or have you got any amazing ideas on how you can encourage people to engage with the appeal. Just pop your comments below and they will be looked at by the team. You can leave your details if you would like us to get back to you.