Out of the box

Back in December, Wetherby Senior’s pupils and parents donated over 100 shoeboxes, containing Christmas gifts, to the West London Mission (WLM). This very deserving charity provides social work projects for some of London’s most vulnerable people, helping those affected by a range of social issues (like homelessness, poverty and trauma) to make positive changes in their lives.

Mr Underwood, Head of Academic PE at Wetherby Senior, explains: “Our School has been supporting WLM for many years, with participation in their shoebox appeal becoming a Wetherby Senior Christmas tradition. This year saw more than 100 shoeboxes donated, each containing a range of items, from toiletries to hats and scarves, which can make a huge difference to someone’s life.”

Shoeboxes from our School were delivered to WLM Katherine Price Hughes House (WLM KPH) and WLM Burgess Park House (WLM BPH).

WLM KPH is one of only 12 independent approved premises for ex-offenders leaving prison, providing high-level support during the transition back into the community. A representative from WLM KPH said: “Residents were extremely grateful as they were not expecting gifts. The fact that people in the community took the time to choose the presents with thought is heart-warming. Every item received – books, socks, hats, scarves, gloves etc – was appropriate for the needs of the residents and helped residents feel valued.

“Many of our residents do not have families to go to, so celebrating Christmas is always a difficult time for them but being in our approved premises, and receiving gifts, helped them to forget, for a moment, the difficulties they were facing.”

A representative from WLM BPH, which supports ex-military men and women who are homeless or at risk of homelessness, added: “From the staff and on behalf of the residents, we say thank you! You have made an amazing difference to the people who live in our properties by providing gifts. Christmas can often be a difficult time for people who don’t have anyone to share the festive season with, so your contribution and thoughtfulness bought some joy.”

For more information about WLM, please visit their website.