KENTMAS
HOW TO ... GIVE BACK
A TIME OF GRATITUDE AND GOODWILL , CHRISTMAS OFFERS UP THE ALL-IMPORTANT OPPORTUNITY TO SPREAD KINDNESS AND LOVE TO ALL THOSE IN NEED THIS SEASON .
PILGRIMS HOSPICES , SANTAS ON THE RUN !
Often recognised as a warming period of reflection and the time that we give thanks to the people we love , the festive season is known for being a chapter of joy , togetherness , hope and new beginnings . Sadly however , for some , Christmas is one of the most challenging periods of the year , arriving with a host of difficulties and sometimes an overwhelming uncertainty of life ahead . Every year however , many remarkable charities throughout the county and beyond strive to provide necessary aid to those who need it most . To ensure these wonderful charities can continue shedding light in the darkest of times , it ’ s integral that we do all we can to support them and spread the word in order to truly make a difference .
Helpfully , there are so many ways in which you can support others at Christmastime . Whether that be raising funds through seasonal challenges , choosing to gift loved ones with presents that give back or simply , yet equally as importantly , offering your time and company to those in need - your support will always be greatly appreciated .
One charity that recognises the pressures that Christmas brings to so many is the Samaritans ( samaritans . org ), who are once again urging us to give back this season by checking up on those around us , knowing that there are a myriad of reasons someone might find this time of year difficult and sharing that it ’ s OK not to be OK . With helpful resources available on their website for both personal concerns and if you are worried about someone else , as well as an understanding Samaritan only a phone call away - head into Christmas this year with the utmost awareness and kindness for both yourself and your neighbours .
Also spreading the word on just how lonely this season can be for the elderly is Age UK ( ageuk . org . uk ). With staggering statistics from the charity stating that almost 1.5 million older people feel more lonely at Christmas than any other time of the year , donations , friendly volunteers and raising awareness is urgently needed to ensure no one has to go through a Christmas alone .
With the extreme weather that winter can bring , the RSPCA ( rspca . org . uk ), who have also commemorated their 200th anniversary of changing animals ’ lives this year , are expecting to take more animals into their care and respond to more urgent calls through their cruelty lines at this time of year and even on Christmas Day itself . Alongside a dedicated online shop for beautiful gifts that directly funds their important causes , you can also get involved this year by sponsoring cat pods and dog kennels to provide transformative care , receiving a welcome pack and regular updates of all the animals you are helping .
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