This spring, we are reflecting on the triumph of light over darkness. Though the winter months are long and seemingly unending, spring always brings renewal. For those experiencing homelessness, “winter” is often more than a season; it can be a period defined by low self-esteem and a feeling of disconnection from everyday life. The journey ahead can feel impossible, but the homeless schemes we support work tirelessly to ensure that starting anew is possible for everyone.
One of the ways they do this is by applying for a CHC grant to fund enriching activities like arts and crafts, gardening, cooking clubs or days out. These activities often aim to improve engagement between residents and staff and help people take part in everyday experiences that many of us take for granted.
The last few months, of course, included Christmas, when we supported schemes with festive meals and gatherings. The festive season can be a particularly difficult time, as the weight of isolation and memories of the past can feel even heavier. We have supported these celebrations for many years and hope to continue doing so, as we can see how much these moments mean to the people involved.
Community through cooking in Kent
In a supported housing scheme in Kent, a CHC grant funded a weekly cooking initiative. Residents met in a communal kitchen to learn how to prepare healthy, budget-friendly meals from scratch, often using herbs and vegetables grown in the scheme’s garden.
Participants said that the sessions gave them a sense of motivation and purpose. Several residents have since moved on to independent tenancies, taking these new skills and a handmade recipe book with them. As one participant put it: “Cooking made me new friends and gave me a purpose.”
Hitting the right note in Cambridge
At a project in Cambridge, we have been funding a music therapy programme for residents – some at the very beginning of their recovery journey, often struggling with harmful behaviours and addiction.
Music therapy offers a non-threatening environment to explore feelings and build resilience. Whether they are picking up a guitar for the first time or reconnecting with a past passion, the sessions help residents find healthy coping strategies and a sense of belonging.
Skills for life in Yorkshire
In Yorkshire, one of our grants was used to fund a basic first aid course delivered by a professional ambulance crew. Participants learned practical skills including applying bandages, performing resuscitation, and using a defibrillator.
Residents reported how much they valued the opportunity to learn skills that could help them support their peers and the wider community. It was a simple, one-off event that provided both practical knowledge and a sense of empowerment.
Your donations make these moments of connection possible.
Spring newsletter focus: homelessness in older people
Blog: facing homelessness in later life
A growing number of people of retirement age are experiencing homelessness for the first time. Homelessness schemes, including many of the ones we support, are seeing increasing numbers of people aged 60 and over arriving in temporary accommodation.
Blog: supporting older people experiencing homelessness
A support worker’s perspective
Older people experiencing homelessness can face particular challenges when living in supported accommodation that is often shared with younger residents. We spoke with Rosalind, who works at one of the schemes we support in Maidstone, about her experience of supporting older residents and the issues they face.
A year of purpose: the 2025 Impact Report
Our latest Impact Report is now live on our website, offering a comprehensive look at our journey over 12 months. It details who we’ve supported and the communities we’ve reached, bringing the data to life through the stories of real people who have received our grants.
These narratives highlight the tangible change made possible by our valued community of donors. We invite you to explore the report to see how your support drives this essential work forward.
Case study: Bob
“The grant took away the worry of equipping my flat. I am really excited to have my own space again.”
Case study: Donna
“The support helped take away the worry of having to start again.”
Summer fun-draising!
Could you be a CHC champion?
Each £200 you raise pays for one of our life-changing grants.
This summer, we’re inviting you to fundraise for CHC.
You don’t need to run a marathon or shave your head! A summer BBQ, fête, or afternoon tea could be a fantastic way to support those in need.
Whatever you choose to do, we’ll support you all the way.
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