Become a Secret Santa this St Nicholas Day, 6th December
On St Nicholas Day, 6th December, some churches in the UK, and across the globe, commemorate St Nicholas of Myra – a 4th Century Bishop from Turkey – whose journey from Saint to Santa began with his legend for secret gift giving to those in need.
The Rt. Revd. Arun Arora, Bishop of Kirkstall, has written the Archbishop of York's Advent Book Stick with Love, and the reflection today speaks of St Nicholas, and the generosity of giving secretly to those in need.
As one of the founding trustees of Acts 435, the Rt. Revd. Arun Arora said: “St Nicholas Day is an opportunity to reclaim the more secretive aspect of giving and the invitation for each of us to be a Secret Santa – perhaps through random acts of kindness and giving anonymously to people we know or through organised charities such as Acts 435.
“While still a young man Nicholas became known for his generosity to those in need, for rescuing sailors in the Aegean sea, and his concern for the destitute. His Saints Day is marked across the globe each year in different ways, not least in the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg and northern France, who on 6th December celebrate the festival of Sinter Klass.
“Here in the UK at a time when so many people are in need, Acts 435 puts people who want to help in touch with people who are in need, through a network of churches and local charities. Acts 435 enables virtual, online giving for specific needs. 100% of what is donated via Acts 435 goes directly to those in need. My encouragement to everyone on December 6th, and for this Christmas, is simply: “Be more St Nic!”
In many countries St Nicholas Day is celebrated by filling empty shoes with sweets, nuts and fruit but a gift through Acts 435 can make a bigger difference, helping someone in a crisis or in poverty with a specific item that they so desperately need.
Could you be "more St Nic" and give anonymously towards the specific need of someone who is in need today?
Give to an urgent need today!
The average time for a need to be fully funded is currently 6 days
£200 needed for a refurbished laptop
K, an asylum seeker who arrived in our area three months ago having left his family in Kuwait, receives £9 per week in financial support. This client has engaged with our organisation, attending different activities such as English language classes, English communication sessions, CV writing sessions and cultural events each week. K needs help to buy a refurbished laptop as he wants to strengthen his English language skills.
£200 needed for outdoor storage boxes
V has a large family of eight and they are unsuitably housed. It is very overcrowded which is impacting the whole family. They are trying to stay clutter free but with two babies, this is hard. They have no storage at all so items such as prams, car seats, baby bouncer and toys have to be kept in the living room. This means the children have no room to play. They are in need of two large outside storage boxes. They are £100 each but would give the family their much needed space. Thank you.
£200 needed for a washing machine
A has experienced a few bouts of homelessness since he separated from his ex-wife many years ago. He suffers with anxiety and depression and has mobility issues. He has now moved into a one bed privately rented flat. The washing machine is not working and will not be replaced. Due to his mobility issues he is struggling with his laundry and this is having a detrimental affect on his mental health. He cannot work due to his health and does not have the funds to buy a washing machine.
£190 needed for a laptop
M is an ex-gambling addict who is rebuilding his life after experiencing destitution and rough sleeping. He is living in homeless accommodation, and gives regular talks and support to people still suffering from addiction. M wants a laptop so he can start studying, learning, and applying for jobs. He wants to work in a role where he can help people, and eventually set up a gambling support line for people like himself.
£200 needed for a new washing machine
This single mum with a 9 year old daughter lives in rented social housing and suffers from multiple physical and mental health problems including musculoskeletal issues. She lives on Universal Credit and Child Benefit (she is not currently receiving Personal Independence Payments). Christians Against Poverty are putting a debt plan together for her multiple debts and she has no savings. Her washing machine is broken and is irreparable. Can you help her to replace it?
£200 needed for school uniforms
The family is experiencing financial hardship and is struggling to meet essential living costs, including household bills and food. They currently rely on food bank support to help manage daily expenses. Assistance with school uniforms for their four children would help ease financial pressure and ensure the children can attend school properly equipped.
£200 needed for a shopping voucher for food, toiletries and clothing
This gentleman is a victim of domestic abuse, having been in the relationship for many years and raising his three children, he has finally managed to break free. He is now sadly having to live in his car, in between homes and having to basically start over. He is in real need of help with food and clothing, as he has lost many of his possessions due to leaving. Would you be able to please help him with a voucher so that he can get some food and essential clothing?
£195 needed for the supply and fitting of carpets for hall, stairs and landing
This family has recently moved into a new home after spending a period in temporary accommodation. Their income is limited as the father is actively seeking employment. They are learning to manage their finances carefully while repaying some small debts through an agreed plan. The family is receiving support as they work towards greater stability. They need carpeting especially as their baby is now crawling and beginning to take their first steps. Praying that our generous donors can help
£170 needed for a mattress
This single mum with a 9 year old daughter, living in rented social housing, suffers from multiple physical and mental health problems including muscular skeletal issues. She lives on Universal Credit and child benefit (not currently getting Personal Independence Payments). Christians Against Poverty are putting a debt plan together for multiple debts and she has no savings. The springs are going in her current king size mattress and she needs £170 to replace it with one that will help her be more comfortable