A homeless charity will put smiles on the faces of hungry, lonely and vulnerable Scots this Christmas by handing out meals and presents.
Homeless Project Scotland is predicted to help around 100 people at its new facility on Glassford Street in Glasgow‘s city centre on Christmas Day.
Last week, founder Colin McInnes appealed for help to raise £1,000 on his social channels to buy selection boxes as gifts to give out to those in need.
His plea was spotted by Barry Cushley, founder of Quest For Success – another charity that works to offer better futures to young people through apprenticeship programmes. Barry immediately donated the money on behalf of Quest For Success.
Colin said: “At this time of year it’s even harder for people – there is the cold and wet of winter but also seeing families happy and carrying bags of food and presents makes it really tough. There’s a huge number of people, families and individuals, in the city who are really struggling all year round but it all seems so much worse at Christmas..
“We wanted to have something we can give to people when we see them over the Christmas. period – thanks to Barry we have bought 600 selection boxes and will hand them out so everyone we see has a present to open. It may not seem like much, but it will mean the world to people because it shows someone has thought about them.”
The presents will be handed out as Homeless Project Scotland are hosting their annual Christmas. Day party at iconic Glasgow bar McChuills, with free festive meals for those in need.
Colin continued: “The Stewart family who own and run the bar not only hand the place over to us every year, but they’re all there helping, serving food and really helping make it a special day for us all.
“Homeless Project Scotland wants to say thank you so much to Barry and all at Quest For Success, and to Nicky, Nick and the whole team at McChuills.
“If there were more people like Barry and the Stewart family the world would be a better place.”
Barry believes it is vital for charities to collaborate to help improve life for all in Scotland
He said: “It’s all about coming together to help where we can – and making sure we support each other in trying to achieve good things. That’s how we really change society and Colin has been a huge inspiration with his work for Homeless Project Scotland.”
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