As the festive season draws near, Fair Ways is proud to announce the launch of its annual Care Leavers Backpack Appeal, a heart-warming initiative dedicated to making a difference in the lives of young care leavers in the Portsmouth area.
For many, Christmas is a season filled with joy and family gatherings. However, for Care Leavers, it can be a challenging time, often marked by a sense of isolation and financial struggle. Fair Ways’ 2024 Care Leavers Appeal provides individual backpacks filled with essential items and thoughtful gifts to help them and let them know people are still thinking of them this holiday season.
Last year’s appeal saw over 50 local care leavers supported through generous donations from the community. This year, Fair Ways along with renowned children’s campaigner Chris Wild are looking to make the Portsmouth-based appeal ever bigger and are aiming to donate over 100 bags.
A Growing Need
The demand for support has only increased, as more young adults than ever face the challenge of navigating adulthood with limited resources and support networks. Care leavers are now nine times more likely to face homelessness than other young adults of a similar age. This is sadly due to the care “cliff” which is faced by children in care once they turn 18 when almost all support is suddenly withdrawn. This “cliff” describes the sudden loss of relationships, support and care once these vulnerable children turn 18 and are often expected to live in independently.
How the Appeal Works
Fair Ways is calling on local businesses, community groups, and compassionate individuals to contribute to the appeal. The preference is for financial donations and the Fair Ways team will purchase the essential items at bulk discount and fill each backpack. These will then be distributed through Portsmouth City Council.
Donations may be provided via this link, https://bit.ly/40Dk1Cw. Please be assured 100% of the money donated will go to vulnerable care leavers.
If you would rather collect essential items as part of a larger group please contact us on the email below and we will provide the list of essential items and further guidance on the logistics of delivering these to Fair Ways. For any queries email Rosie.barnard@Fairways.co
Fair Ways thank you in advance for your support and making a difference this Christmas.
