Local community charity Wimbledon Guild has launched its annual Christmas Appeal asking for donations to support local people who are struggling this Christmas.
As Mark Williams, the charity’s Head of Communications and Fundraising says: “For many, Christmas is a time filled with warmth, joy, and the comfort of family and friends, but for a lot of the people we support, the season only highlights what’s missing: no one to share a meal or pull a cracker with, no money for a Christmas tree or gifts, and no sense of joy or community.”
“But there is hope. With your help, we can be there for those who feel forgotten – this Christmas and throughout the year. A donation to Wimbledon Guild means we can provide financial assistance, mental health support, and companionship year-round, making sure that no one in Merton faces life’s challenges alone.”
To donate, please visit www.wimbledonguild.co.uk/donate.
Please give what you can so Wimbledon Guild can support more people like Erin*
Meet Erin*, a 56-year-old woman who lives locally.
Until recently, Erin felt invisible. The last few years have been overwhelming. After caring for her mother through a long battle with dementia, she was left grieving and exhausted.
With no family or friends nearby to turn to, she struggled to manage.
No Family. No Bed. No Hope.
Erin had nothing – not even a proper bed to sleep in. She was sleeping on a worn-out sofa.
When she came to Wimbledon Guild, she expected to be turned away. She had experienced it before – just another number, another form to fill out, another referral elsewhere.
But that didn’t happen. Instead, the team at Wimbledon Guild listened fully. They saw Erin. And they responded with reassurance, compassion and support.
“Thank You for Really Seeing Me”
Erin’s life looks completely different now. With financial help from Wimbledon Guild, Erin was able to buy a comfortable bed. The charity’s counselling service helped her to process her feelings and start to look forward to the future.
Slowly, with support from Wimbledon Guild, Erin has started to rebuild her life. Erin now visits the charity’s community café each week and has reconnected with her love of painting through their weekly art classes.
*To protect confidentiality, Erin’s story is a combination of the type of situations that people come to Wimbledon Guild with every day.
Please donate today to help people like Erin this Christmas
We know that times are tough, but any donation you can give – no matter the amount – will make a world of difference to people like Erin. Your support today can bring hope for the year ahead.
For more information or to donate, visit www.wimbledonguild.co.uk/donate.
