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"It Can Be A Lonely Time" - Christmas Appeal For Vulnerable Young Islanders

An Isle of Wight service - which provides accommodation for vulnerable young people - is appealing for Islanders' help once again this Christmas.

Like most people across the country, residents of The Foyer, in Ryde, have been hit hard by the coronavirus pandemic.

Staff say "quite a few" of their 45 residents have lost jobs and as a result, have been left feeling alone.

Every Christmas, the service asks for donations in an effort to put smiles on faces - and this year is no different.

From decorations to gifts, to festive food - anything is welcome. Shift leader, Charlotte Davies, said:

"I think our residents definitely aren't the only ones who struggle at this time of year. I think it can be really emotional for some of them.

"It's been scary. We're trying to do everything we can to make this Christmas as enjoyable and as happy as we can. It's never easy for any of them. A lot of them don't have families that they can go to or people to buy them a lot of presents. 

"We are doing what we can. We have different Christmas activities going on every day. We gave things like movie nights and cooking activities.. we just try and make it as homely as we can."

In previous years, examples of donations have included:

  • Christmas decorations
  • Treats and chocolates
  • Fresh vegetable
  • Frozen meals
  • Toiletries 
  • Phone chargers
  • Gift sets 
  • Hats, gloves, scarfs
  • Headphones/earphones

The Foyer, which is part of Sovereign Housing, is staffed 24 hours a day. Those who would like to donate can call up in advance on (01983) 567599. 

Alternatively, Islanders are welcome to visit the building, based on George Street, where they will be greeted by a member of staff in PPE. 

There is no deadline for donations, but staff say it is preferable if they arrive on/before December 23.

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