Health Heart Hope Charity launches Winter Appeal

Health Heart Hope Charity, which supports Kent and Medway Mental Health NHS Trust, has launched its Winter Appeal to help people experiencing homelessness across Kent and Medway stay safe and warm this winter.

With temperatures dropping and the cost-of-living crisis continuing to affect vulnerable people, the charity is calling on local residents, businesses and community groups to support the appeal by donating essential winter items or contributing funds towards Winter Kits. Each kit is worth £70 and includes a dry bag, clothing, emergency food vouchers, sleeping bag to help protect those sleeping rough in freezing conditions.

Kirsty McInnes, Charity and Volunteer Manager for Health Heart Hope, said: “This is our first Winter Appeal and we know our community’s kindness will change lives. Homelessness is not a choice, and many people sleeping rough are among the most vulnerable and traumatised in our communities. Every act of support, big or small, will help someone feel seen, safe and cared for this winter.”

It is estimated that between 40% and 80% of people sleeping rough experience mental health difficulties, making it extremely difficult to find and maintain stable housing. The charity aims not only to provide warmth but to support people in accessing help, reduce stigma and raise awareness.

Members of the public can donate online via the JustGiving page: www.justgiving.com/campaign/givealittlejoy, where £5 could fund a food voucher, £10 could provide a dry bag and £20 could support the purchase of a thermal sleeping bag. The charity is also collecting winter coats, sleeping bags, scarves and gloves.

This year also sees the launch of a Hot Water Bottle Scheme, supported by cafés across Maidstone. Donated new hot water bottles will be refilled for free by participating cafés from November to March, offering warmth and reassurance.

Donation drop-off points for winter coats, sleeping bags, scarves and gloves and new hot water bottles which are open from 10am to 4pm, Monday to Saturday are:

• Priority House, Hermitage Lane, Maidstone ME16 9NZ
• Fremlin Walk Centre Management Suite, 62 Earl Street, Maidstone ME14 1PS
• Britton House, Britton Farm, High Street, Gillingham ME7 1AL

Paul, who previously experienced homelessness and received support from the trust, said: “I owe my life to the care I received. The team never gave up on me, even when I didn’t want to face another day. Life is very different now and I’m proud to support this appeal and help develop these kits. I know they will make a real difference, when you’re living on the street, knowing someone cares means everything.”

To report someone sleeping rough so they can receive support, contact StreetLink at www.streetlink.org.uk or call 0300 500 0914.