For many, Christmas is a time of warmth, joy, and happy memories, but for others in our communities, this season can be a difficult reminder of hardship, loneliness, or uncertainty.
At The Lighthouse, our mission is to bring light into the lives of those who are struggling, as we look to make a significant difference to many individuals during this special time of year.
BAGS OF CHRISTMAS KINDNESS include essential supplies and festive treats for those who are really struggling – refugees, homeless, lonely. We’ll be supporting hundreds with your help, showing God’s love through these gifts of compassion and generosity.
A STORY:
Last winter, Lionel was sleeping rough after losing his job and home.
The cold nights were the hardest, but what stayed with him the most was the loneliness.
When he came to The Lighthouse, he was welcomed with warmth, a meal, and a smile – simple acts of kindness through the toughest days.
“My difficult times when I was homeless passed a little easier because of The Lighthouse”, Lionel says.
“My mental health was relatively stable because of the warm welcome I received from every member of staff.”
That Christmas, Lionel shared dinner at The Lighthouse with others in similar situations – the first time in months he’d felt part of something.
Now, with support and stability, he volunteers at The Lighthouse to help others find hope, just as he did.
Kindness at Christmas, Hope All Year Round – Your support helps make stories like Lionel’s possible offering warmth, friendship, and a place to belong when it’s needed the most.
Target Amount:
Up to £5,000 (Each bag costs £10, so £5,000 will support 500 people)
Bags of Christmas Kindness
How it works
The tradition of The Gathering Auction goes back further than we care to remember, and is unlike anything you will have experienced before.
The best way to sum it up in one word is OUTRAGEOUS.
It is an opportunity for outrageous giving to some highly worthy causes connected with 24-7 Prayer.
Instructions for Online Auctioneers:
- Browse the causes and the Auction lots
Take a look through all of the items on offer in the fundraiser.
- Donate towards your chosen causes
Once you’ve chosen your cause, make a donation towards the lot that represents it. Please note: we are not taking pledges this year and all donations will be taken immediately.
Instructions for In-Person Auctioneers:
Here’s how it will go:
- Browse the causes and the auction lots
Take a look through all of the items on offer in the auction, and pay particular attention to the causes they are going to support.
As Brian and Keith announce each lot, you’ll have a chance to bid towards the items. Each donation will go towards the cause we are supporting, and the highest donation will win the item. Feel free to club together with friends or family to donate the biggest possible amount!
Frequently Asked Questions
How much can I bid?
We want everyone to be involved, but please only donate what you can afford to give. We’re encouraging outrageous generosity, but if you give £1 or £1000, you are still a star in our eyes.
Can I donate towards more than one item?
Of course! Donate towards as many items as many times as you like but, as hard as it may be, try not to get too carried away!
Where does my money go?
Each lot will support a different cause, and all causes are listed on the website. ALL the money received from the donations will go to that cause.
