The holidays are a time of giving, whether presents, love or good-old Christmas joy. While there’s no better feeling than rushing into the living room on Christmas day and discovering a tree overflowing with perfectly-wrapped presents just for you, spreading this feeling is even better. Here are a few Reading charities that you can support in making a tangible impact in the community.
Ali’s Recycling
Run by Alison Chaney, the TerraCycle collection scheme is an initiative that helps raise funds for dozens of local schools, churches and charities in Reading and Wokingham. All residents need to do to make a difference is bag up their recycling and drop it off at the Town Council offices.
Reading Refugee Support Group
Started more than 25 years ago by a group of refugees, Reading Refugee Support Group is dedicated to helping asylum seekers in Berkshire rebuild their lives. The organisation supports refugees from over 50 countries and helps them find employment, a safe place to stay as well as provides them with the key skills and knowledge to successfully integrate into British society.
Reading Age UK
With a large percentage of Reading’s elderly population suffering from loneliness and isolation, Reading Age UK provides them with a space to socialise and find their joy again. The group of volunteers host a number of fun activities and social events at local retirement homes, as well as help the elderly with shopping and essential errands.
Launchpad
As Reading’s leading homelessness prevention charity, Launchpad provides people who have lost their homes with the information, skills and support to get back on their feet. To date, the charity has helped over 1 000 people in Reading and counting. The charity also recently started Launchpad 135, a training centre upskilling individuals and imbuing them with the confidence to re-enter the work world.
Together for Mental Wellbeing
Together for Mental Wellbeing works with the local Reading community to raise awareness and support those battling with their mental health. The charity helps people on their road to recovery through a range of personal and practical services including one-to-one support and accommodation.
Sadaka
Sadaka is a non-profit in Reading on a mission to nourish and uplift members in the community struggling financially. The group provides those in need with a warm and wholesome meal twice a week, a bag of groceries and employment skills to help them find their feet again.
Autism Berkshire
Founded in 1990, Autism Berkshire is dedicated to giving individuals with autism the independence needed to lead successful lives. By raising awareness and delivering autism-appropriate services and support, the team are forging a brighter future for people on the spectrum.
Whether donating or volunteering at one of these amazing charities, giving back is the best way to celebrate the festive season. If you’re looking for a secure place to store your personal or business items in Reading, Pink Hippo would be more than happy to lend a helping hand. Give us a call or request a quote online and we’ll get back to you pronto!