‘I’m not just homeless; I’m lonely.’
There are many reasons someone might be lonely at Christmas – bereavement, family breakdowns, distance. But for someone experiencing homelessness, it can feel as though they’re totally invisible. This is only exaggerated when it comes to ‘the most wonderful time of the year’, when people should be with friends and loved ones at home and not out in the cold. For many, this time of year is a painful reminder of what they have lost.
This Christmas, we encourage you to look behind the word, ‘homeless’, and remember the person behind it. A warm smile, a simple ‘hello’, a conversation—all of these things can help someone feel just the tiniest bit less lonely this Christmas.
Please help us raise the vital funds we need to continue our work in the community by donating to the Simon on The Streets Christmas Appeal.
The impact of loneliness
There’s a difference between being ‘alone’ and ‘loneliness’. It’s possible to feel lonely in a crowded room. Prolonged loneliness can make someone more vulnerable to mental health difficulties such as depression, and there’s a higher risk of developing substance addictions. It can even increase a person’s risk of developing certain physical health conditions.
Read more.
Simon’s Advent Calendar is here!
You’ve heard from us enough this year. This Christmas, we’re handing over to some of our wonderful supporters including businesses, volunteers, fundraisers and other people we’ve worked with. Keep your eyes peeled on our social channels to hear their incredible experiences with us over the years.
The countdown is on!
