Glasgow churches reach out to the vulnerable
From giving away hundreds of hampers to laying on special Christmas parties, Glasgow churches are working hard to stop families from waking up cold and hungry in the city this Christmas.
Glasgow City Mission volunteer Ruth Hutchison chats with visitors to the Mission's city centre project
Glasgow City Mission is especially busy this festive period preparing extra Christmas meals for up to 200 homeless and vulnerable citizens.
They are able to gift everyone a bag of Christmas presents donated from many church congregations across the city which includes help from Woodhill Evangelical church whose ladies fellowship donated 20 carrier bags full of tins, dry goods and chocolate.
In Govan, Glasgow City Mission’s child and family centre has laid on several Christmas parties for local children, with special trips to places such as M&D’s and ten pin bowling to help bring some Christmas cheer.
Destiny Church has sent out hundreds of toys and food hampers this year through its Destiny’s Angels helpline initiative.
Pastor Andrew Owen says: “One lady walked from Dennistoun to Shawlands for a supply of food. There are hundreds of ordinary Glasgow folks with no money and no food. We desperately need more supplies as there is no end to the need.”
Glasgow Westend Vineyard church initiative ‘Store House’ collects food and working in partnership with Starter Packs Glasgow distributes it to those in need.
Senior Pastor Jamie Watters notes “We have become acutely aware that, with the price of utilities such as gas and electricity not falling with the price of oil, many people are facing the choice of eating or heating this winter. We notice people are much more open to us on the streets and there is a deep sense of worry about the future with the folk we meet. We have found that thinking more deeply and doing acts of kindness are flowing as a result.”
Findlay Memorial Church is reaching out to more than 100 families in the local community through their charity Findlay Family Network and also provides a base for UK wide charity Christians Against Poverty (CAP) which operates in 112 UK centres.
CAP offers debt counselling, advice and practical help. Jean Nicholson, the CAP representative in Glasgow, and says: “Debt is an increasing problem in our society but individuals can receive the help and support they need through Christian’s Against Poverty’s work. The worst thing people can do is stay silent so I would urge anyone in financial difficulty to contact me on 0141 332 9870. Being in debt is nothing to be ashamed of and i know we can work together to provide a lasting solution.”
For more information on CAP call Freephone 0800 328 0006 or visit www.capuk.org.
• Source: Evangelical Alliance Scotland.
