Homelessness charity Emmaus Dover has launched a Blessing Bag Appeal to bring comfort and essential supplies to individuals sleeping rough this Christmas.

We are inviting the local community to donate vital items, which will be packed into red ‘blessing bags’ and distributed every Tuesday during the Emmaus Dover well-being run to Folkestone. These runs provide food, drink, and essential items such as blankets and shoes to people sleeping rough.

The following items are requested for the blessing bags:

  • Deodorant
  • Toothpaste and toothbrush
  • Wet wipes
  • Winter hat, scarf, and gloves
  • Socks
  • Small torches
  • Sleeping bags

Donations of clothing can be new or preloved, but we kindly ask that second-hand items be clean and in good condition (free from stains or holes). For hygiene reasons, we can only accept new toiletries and are unable to accept food, drinks, or perishable goods.

Gerry Golden, Retail Manager for Emmaus Dover, said: “We are calling on our amazing supporters to help those sleeping rough this Christmas by donating essential items like deodorants, torches, and sleeping bags. These blessing bags will make a meaningful difference for those facing homelessness during the cold winter months.”

Blessing Bag donations can be dropped until the 23 December off at:
Emmaus Dover, Archcliffe Fort, Archcliffe Road, Dover, CT17 9EL.