We first think of Christmas as a time of joy and happiness, but for many people it’s actually the most difficult time of the year, where loneliness, financial worries and other struggles are magnified. For the past 10 years, the Celtic FC Christmas films have focussed on that joyful Christmas magic, but this year we wanted to raise awareness of the other side of the festive season. Celtic FC was formed with a purpose of providing support. The club’s aim was to help alleviate poverty in the East End of Glasgow and put food on the table for vulnerable people, and that aim has only expanded in reach since then as we have continued to be a club open to all. With this year’s film, we want to raise awareness of the vital work that Celtic FC Foundation do each year. We’ve highlighted the stories of three participants of Celtic FC Foundation projects, to show the help that’s available all year round to anyone who needs it. Today, we’re sharing Frances’ story, but keep an eye out for more to come in the run-up to Christmas. FIND OUT MORE Celtic FC Foundation projects across the UK and Ireland were engaged with over 39,500 times last year, demonstrating the ongoing need for this invaluable support. The Christmas Appeal is of course a major campaign every year, raising £412k in 2024 to help those who need it most over the festive period. But the Foundation provides essential services all year round, delivering a wide range of support across Glasgow and beyond. Christmas is a time when many of us feel an extra strain, and it’s understandable that you may need a little more help over the festive season. It’s never too late to take the first step, and asking for help is always the right thing to do. Celtic FC Foundation has a host of friendly and welcoming colleagues who can give you advice, plus you can meet likeminded local people to build an essential community. FIND OUT MOREFRANCES’ STORY Today, we’re telling Frances’ story, who first interacted with Celtic FC Foundation in March this year. She had been struggling since her sister sadly took her own life in 2012, leaving her dealing with loneliness, difficulty navigating her new reality and unfortunately also attempting suicide herself. With a bit of encouragement from her friends, she visited Paradise Pit Stop, a safe, warm and non-judgemental environment where a two-course meal is served to all attendees four times a week, no questions asked. Despite the nerves she felt beforehand, Frances found the sense of community and support she had been longing for. She said, “I remember just seeing everyone smiling, saying ‘hi’. It was just so nice. It was a beautiful experience for my headspace at that particular time in my life.” From there, Frances became involved in the Gateway to Health & Opportunity project, which she credits for giving her a new lease of life. She says she’s found herself again, and is once again the life and soul of the party. The confidence she’s gained has led her to a new purpose in life – helping others, no matter what. “I tried for 12 years, and I found that place in March. There’s a place called Paradise. 100% saved my life.” FIND OUT MORE We hope these stories can inspire you to look further into the help offered by Celtic FC Foundation, and that you can take the first step to receiving support if you or a loved one need it.
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