Christmas 2020: The 15 Dorset Charities for Those Who Need Them

2020 has been a tough year for many. Whether you may have had financial worries, emotional ones, or anything else. As we go into the festive season, it’s important to realise that Christmas may look a little different this year. Here at Dorset Companions, we wanted to collate a list of Dorset Charities, who are there for those who need them this Christmas time. If you need additional support, there are many local groups and charities available. Take a look at the resources below and don’t be afraid to reach out, if you need it.

The Dorset Children’s Foundation

They support children with disabilities. This Christmas they are sending out ‘Bags of Happiness’ to the children.

Dorset Mind

Although the offices are shut over Christmas, and they do not provide a phone service or crisis line, they do have several self-care resources on the website for those in need. They also have a 5-step crisis plan for anyone who is need of urgent help. Dorset Mind also have groups that people can attend, with many being online whilst restrictions are in place. The timetable can be viewed here.

Home-Start South East Dorset

Home-Start have continued to support vulnerable families throughout the pandemic and introduced Wellness Walks and self-referrals (due to referrals routes being harder to access ie. Health visitors) This Christmas they are putting together ‘Christmas in a Bag’ for their families, as they cannot have the usual Christmas party. Home-Start are including presents for the children and hopefully, with the support of community groups like Rotary and Lions, a selection box or similar food item. The BC Club have also kindly offered to help fund a teddy bear for each bag.

Trussell Trust

Don’t go hungry this Christmas, pop down to your local food bank or contact the Trussell Trust to gain access to a food package. For those who aren’t in need, why not join in their Christmas virtual get together to raise money or make a local donation at a Tesco’s.

Hope For Food

Based in the Bournemouth area, this charity help support families in need and the homeless community. This year they are hoping to provide 250 food parcels, as well as giving our Christmas bags at their Christmas eve meal.

Julia’s House

Julia’s House provides practical and emotional support for families caring for a child with a life-limiting or life-threatening condition across Dorset and Wiltshire. They are hosting an online Christmas Cracker event on 2^nd December for fundraising.

Shelter

Shelter will be continuing to help the homeless this Christmas. They will be hosting a free virtual carol concert on 3^rd December to help raise money for the homeless.

Action for Children

They support vulnerable children across the UK. This year, they are asking people to donate and become a ‘Secret Santa’ for a child in need.

Volunteer Centre Dorset

Helping those in need, or vulnerable throughout the community. They help in a manner of different ways and can help with food parcels for those in need.

Amelia’s Rainbow

This is a charity which supports children who are suffering from any terminal, life-limiting, serious or chronic illnesses in Dorset and the surrounding areas. They have launched a toy appeal, asking for donations to hand out to those children suffering this year.

The Samaritans

Open throughout the festive period, the Samaritans are there to take any calls from those who are struggling and need a listening ear.

Toys for Tots

Distributing toys to those children less fortunate, you can request a toy online to find your local campaign. You can also donate a toy, if you are able to.

Make a Wish

Supporting children who are facing life-threatening illnesses, they grant a wish every 34 minutes.

The Salvation Army

They give those children who would usually go without clothes and toys at Christmas. They also help with groceries and food.

BCP Insight: Access to Food Map

Use this map to find those who are helping give out food packages this Christmas.

Here at Dorset Companions, we strive to take care of our clients too. If you need to turn to someone you can trust, we can help get you in touch with the right people. Please don’t be afraid to reach out and get that support.

I hope you all manage to have a Merry Christmas… and here’s to 2021- let’s hope it’s a much better year for us all.