Here’s how you can make a difference in Manchester this Christmas

As the cost-of-living crisis continues to weigh heavily on households, this Christmas promises to be one of the toughest in memory. Families everywhere are stretching every pound, making difficult choices between warmth, food and even joy.

Yet, while the festive season may feel uncertain for many, it is even more daunting for the most vulnerable in our communities—children in care, rough sleepers, and families living in poverty.

But Christmas is also a season of hope, kindness and the power to change lives. If you’re able to help, no matter how small the gesture, these Manchester Christmas appeals offer a way to share warmth, comfort, and joy with those who need it most.

Each appeal represents a chance to create magical moments, provide essential support, or simply remind someone that they are not forgotten.

This holiday season, consider being a part of that hope. Whether it’s donating a meal, gifting a theatre experience, or contributing warm clothing and self-care items, your generosity can turn a difficult winter into something magical for those who need it most.

Here’s how you can make a difference in Manchester this Christmas…

Manchester Christmas Appeals

Manchester Foundation Trust Christmas Appeal

Help young people navigate life-changing transitions with the Manchester Hospital Foundation Trust’s Christmas Appeal. For children with long-term health conditions, Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital often becomes a comforting second home. However, moving to adult care can be overwhelming.

This appeal supports the hospital’s incredible Youth Service, which helps young patients and their families adjust to new environments, ensuring continued care and emotional support during this critical phase.

How to help

• Donate: Make a financial contribution to support this vital service here.
• Spread awareness: Share this appeal with friends, family, and on social media to encourage more support.

Together, we can empower young people to thrive, even as they transition into unfamiliar settings. Your donation can make a real difference this Christmas.

Wood Street Mission

Help bring joy to local children in need this Christmas by supporting Wood Street Mission’s Christmas Appeal. Families from Manchester and Salford will visit the mission to select gifts donated by the community, ensuring their children experience a happy holiday season.

How to help

• Donate: Contribute new, unwrapped toys, gifts, or books for children aged 0-14 years. Selection boxes, chocolates, and wrapping paper are also appreciated.
• Financial donations: Make a monetary contribution here.
• Fundraise: Organise fundraising events with friends, family, or colleagues. Download their festive fundraising ideas for inspiration!
• Spread the word: Share online using #WoodStreetXmas.

Drop-off Details: Donations can be dropped off at: 26 Wood Street, Manchester M3 3EF (Monday to Friday, 08:30–16:30)

Alternatively, arrange direct delivery from online retailers or book their van service for collection.

For guidance, posters, or additional support, contact the fundraising team at: [email protected]

Deadline: Donations accepted until Monday, 9th December 2024.

Donate a meal with Lifeshare

Lifeshare Manchester provides vital support for rough sleepers, individuals in food and fuel poverty, and anyone in need of warmth and companionship over Christmas. In 2024, they anticipate serving over 4,000 meals, making your help more critical than ever.

How to help

• Donate a meal: For just £11.50, you can fund a Christmas meal for someone in need. This cost includes a fresh meal, support services, and a warm, welcoming space. Donate here.
• Volunteer: Make a difference by volunteering at the Mosaic Wellbeing Hub (2 Dale St, Manchester, M1 1JW) between December 23rd-29th. Volunteers must attend an induction in December and commit to at least two shifts. Sign up via their volunteering platform.

Lifeshare’s Christmas project includes:

• Freshly cooked meals, hot showers, and dry clothes.
• Access to hairdressers, barbers, opticians, doctors, nurses, and Cold Weather Team referrals.
• Entertainment: live music, Christmas films, games, and creative workshops.
• A warm bank for those struggling with heating costs.

Operating hours

• December 23rd-25th: 7am–7pm
• December 26th: 7am–7pm
• December 27th: 7am–7pm
• Other dates: Reduced hours (7am–9am)

Lifeshare’s Christmas efforts rely on community support. Whether donating a meal or giving your time, you’ll bring warmth and joy to Manchester’s most vulnerable this holiday season.

Lowry 2024 festive appeal

This Christmas, you can make a lasting impact on the lives of young people across Salford and Greater Manchester by supporting Lowry’s 2024 Festive Appeal. The appeal raises funds for the Lowry’s Socially Engaged Arts Programme, which helps children and young people overcome barriers and unlock their creative potential. The programme offers opportunities for self-expression, skill development, mental wellbeing, and positive social connections, providing a safe and inspiring space for young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Supported by Salford-born comedian Jason Manford, the appeal aims to raise essential funds for this life-changing programme that supports young carers, care-experienced young people, and those at risk of homelessness. With your help, Lowry can continue to offer these vital services and create more opportunities for local youth.

How to help

• Donate: Make a donation online at Lowry’s Festive Appeal.
• Spread the word: Share the appeal on social media using #LowryFestiveAppeal to help raise awareness.

Donations can be made in person at The Lowry venue or online. Visit the website for more details and to donate by clicking here

Deadline: Donations are being accepted throughout the festive season.

Let’s support Lowry’s vision to transform young lives through creativity and give them the chance to shine this Christmas!