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Volunteer Jaymie Dunster from Deal launches fundraising page for homeless in exchange Christmas shoebox appeal

A volunteer has adapted her Give a Little Love shoe box campaign for Christmas 2020 to ensure the homeless don't go without.

For the past five years, Jaymie Dunster from Deal has collected up to 100 boxes to be given to those in need at the Catching Lives homeless shelter in Canterbury.

Jaymie Dunster would collect up to 100 boxes each Christmas but this year is asking for monetary donations Picture: Paul Amos
Jaymie Dunster would collect up to 100 boxes each Christmas but this year is asking for monetary donations Picture: Paul Amos

The presents, containing items such as toiletries, gloves, socks, snacks, and dog treats, were handed in at outlets around the town in the run up to the festive season.

The mum-of-one would then personally deliver them to the shelter on or around Christmas Eve, bringing joy to people who have very little.

She said: "When receiving them each year they were so moved and grateful.

"It was just so lovely to know that all the donations were going to be given to people that would probably not be receiving much at all."

But this year, the Covid-19 outbreak for many reasons has put paid to the appeal as she knows it.

Jaymie Dunster's Christmas shoebox campaign in aid of the Catching Lives shelter in Canterbury has been altered for 2020
Jaymie Dunster's Christmas shoebox campaign in aid of the Catching Lives shelter in Canterbury has been altered for 2020

Instead, Ms Dunster has launched a GoFundMe page with an aim of raising £250 for Catching Lives.

The charity can then buy and share the necessary items themselves or use the money in other ways to spread festive cheer.

In removing any physical contact between people, Ms Dunster feels it minimises the chances of spreading the virus and helps to keep people safe.

She said: "Covid has made things a little bit different this year but it would be amazing if people could still get together and donate.

"Even if it’s just £1 it will help this amazing charity give a little to those in need.

Jaymie Dunster has set up a GoFundMe page to help the homeless this Christmas
Jaymie Dunster has set up a GoFundMe page to help the homeless this Christmas

"Right now I know they need people's help more than anything."

Catching Lives is an independent charity aimed at supporting the rough sleepers, homeless and vulnerably housed in Canterbury and east Kent.

To donate, click here .

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