Home-Start in Greater Manchester chosen as the John Lewis charity this Christmas

Home-Start logo

Local family support charity Home-Start has been named as one of two charities to benefit from a new campaign with John Lewis and Waitrose.

Alongside FareShare, the campaign with the John Lewis Partnership aims to raise £5m for the work of the two charities, through a nationwide effort to encourage communities and customers to embrace the Christmas spirit and give what they can.

Funds raised will enable Home-Start to support families in communities across the country through volunteer visits and friendship, and FareShare to support essential food provision for families in low income households.

An additional £1m has been allocated to local John Lewis and Waitrose stores to work directly with local Home-Starts and FareShares to help families hit hardest by the Covid-19.

Home-Start works with local families in times of distress, stopping their problems from spiralling out of control, and often preventing crisis. Tailor-made emotional and practical support is given by trained parent volunteers to families in their own homes.

Peter Grigg, CEO of Home-Start UK, said: “This powerful campaign will ensure Home-Start is there for families who need us most. We have seen first-hand how the pandemic is pushing families to the edge, especially those already facing significant challenges in their lives.

“Working with John Lewis Partnership colleagues, customers and communities, we can reach more families and communities at this vital time. We are so proud to partner in this exciting ambition to transform the lives of thousands of families and children this Christmas and beyond.

“We have been overwhelmed by the kindness shown in our communities during the pandemic, but there is so much more to do.”

As part of a network of 180 Home-Starts across the country, the four Home-Starts in Greater Manchester including Home-Start Rochdale Borough, have moved essential support services online to stay connected with families through their team of 500 volunteers, providing emotional and practical support, and linking families into other community services such as their local foodbanks.

One mum supported by Home-Start in Greater Manchester, said: “I don't know where to start, you have changed mine and my kids’ lives so much for the better. You gave us a new life, you helped me when I was down, you picked me back up with having no family, not a friend. You gave me confidence, you made me a stronger person. You helped me smile again. You checked me and kids were okay all the time; I don't know where I'd be without Home-Start.”