As Celtic FC Foundation’s Christmas Appeal draws to a close, we continue to shine a light on some of those who will benefit, as a result of your incredible generosity. Yesterday afternoon, we welcomed 120 special guests – who receive support through Simon Community Scotland – for a wonderful festive carvery lunch, raffle and a visit from Santa Claus, in Celtic Park’s Kerrydale Suite. Anthony Ralston and Liam Scales joined former Celts, Tom Boyd and Tosh McKinlay, at the event as the players past and present met with guests and assisted with handing out raffle prizes. Simon Community Scotland was launched in 1966 and has continued to work to combat the causes and effects of homelessness since then. The organisation provides information, advice, care, support, accommodation and homes for those experiencing, or at risk of, homelessness. Murray Easton of Simon Community Scotland spoke at the lunch, saying: “Today means an incredible amount to the guests who were with us. We’ve met some of these people on the streets and been with them on their journey, so to be able to bring them along to Celtic Park, to be well fed and well looked after is fantastic. “It’s just a brilliant day out for everyone. Things like this make a real difference to people, so we just want to say a huge thanks to all of the Celtic supporters who contribute to the Foundation’s Appeal.” Celtic FC Women’s players, Colette Cavanagh, Maria McAneny and Bruna Lourenco, also recently visited Simon Community Scotland’s Connect Hub, which is a Glasgow facility solely for women who need their support.Simon Community Scotland is just one of the Appeal beneficiaries which will assist those facing homelessness. Through this year’s Appeal, support over the festive season will also be provided to Elpis Centre, Glasgow City Mission, Help the Homeless, The Invisibles and The Wayside Club, Ottawa Mission (thanks to assistance from the Ottawa CSC), as well as those being supported through our Wicklow and London Sleep Out events. These amazing charities collectively provide a vital range of services to make life that little bit more comfortable for those experiencing or facing homelessness, including the provision of hot food and drinks, warm clothing, toiletries and essentials and temporary accommodation, as well as advocacy and advice. Jacqueline Jennett of Elpis Centre spoke of the importance of the support received, saying: “Being a charity with limited funds, we often face challenges when trying to provide a memorable and enjoyable festive period for our young people. “Through the Foundation’s generosity, we can ensure that all our young people have gifts to look forward to on Christmas Day and that they enjoy activities arranged by the staff and within their communities. ‘We would not be able to provide all of this without the kind and thoughtful contributions of the Foundation and its followers. The positive impact on our young people is immense.”’ Karen Stewart of Glasgow City Mission spoke of the challenges faced by so many, saying: “Winter and the Christmas period is one of the busiest times of the year at Glasgow City Mission. “The Support of Celtic FC Foundation has been invaluable to Glasgow City Mission over the years, it has directly enabled the staff at The Mission to support some of the most vulnerable people in our city during the coldest time of year. Christmas is a time when most of us socialise with colleagues, friends and family, but it can be an incredibly difficult time for people sleeping rough, or living in hostels and B&Bs, especially where there have been family or relationship breakdowns. “Your support helps alleviate the isolation and loneliness that many people experience this time of year, giving them somewhere to go, where everyone is accepted and where people find belonging and a sense of family.” Helen McMillan of Help the Homeless added: “As always, we want to thank Celtic FC Foundation for their continued support. It has been incredible over the years and makes such a difference to our work throughout the Christmas period. “We are currently in a state of housing crisis that is seeing more and more individuals and families finding themselves without a permanent home. We believe that everyone deserves a Christmas Dinner no matter where they find themselves. “So our aim is to provide as many individuals and families as possible with a good meal to enjoy on Christmas Day. Without the Foundation’s assistance, we would not be able to fulfil all of the requests for help that we receive. Thank you again.” You can also
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