As Chelsea Foundation prepares to launch this year’s Christmas campaign, we are taking a moment to celebrate the impact of last year’s Wrap Up Warm campaign which was designed to provide comfort, warmth and hope to those most in need during the winter months.
Through the campaign, over 4,000 items of warm clothing were donated to those in need, while £100,000 was raised to support charities tackling homelessness and its root causes.
Grants were awarded to three local charities - Barons Court Project, Vineyard, and York Road Project - each playing a vital role in supporting people experiencing homelessness and vulnerability. All three organisations have now received their funding from the campaign, which is already making a tangible difference in their communities.
Barons Court Project
The Wrap Up Warm campaign was not only about providing warmth but also connection and awareness. Barons Court Project, who support people experiencing homelessness and mental health challenges, described the experience as ‘incredibly special and an honour’.
Michael Angus, director at Barons Court, remarked: ‘The campaign generated huge awareness of our work and gave our guests a moment of real joy when Chelsea players visited. The grant itself means we can now move forward with exciting plans to improve our centre - converting our loft into a purpose-built art studio and group work room, creating more space for our guests to relax and rebuild. Thanks to this support, we can continue to offer the warmest of welcomes our guests deserve.’
Vineyard Community
For Vineyard, receiving a grant was both an inspiration and an opportunity to grow their impact.
David Logan, CEO at Vineyard, said: ‘We felt deeply honoured to be awarded this empowering grant from Chelsea Foundation. ‘It allows us to expand our mental health support, launch a dignified Community Essentials Hub, and strengthen our holistic services - helping individuals and families move from crisis to hope.
‘These new initiatives, led by guests in recovery, will create real pathways to confidence, skills and independence - helping local people not just to survive but to truly thrive.’
York Road Project
York Road Project, who provide accommodation and support to people experiencing homelessness, shared their gratitude for being part of the campaign.
Robert Eyers, fundraising manager, commented: ‘We’re delighted to have received a Wrap Up Warm grant, it’s helping us deliver vital support to clients who are rough sleeping or rebuilding their lives after homelessness. With this funding, we can focus on improving mental health, building life skills, and empowering our clients toward independent futures.’
Laura Cordingley, CEO, Chelsea Foundation, added: ‘The Wrap Up Warm campaign remains a testament to the power of partnership and community. Each story shows that when organisations come together with compassion and purpose, lasting change can be achieved. We are looking forward to seeing how the funds will continue to support those experiencing homelessness and its root causes.’