Westbank launches Christmas campaigns to support the community

The Devon health and wellbeing charity Westbank Community Health and Care has launched three Christmas campaigns to support those who are lonely or who may be struggling financially or emotionally this Christmas.

Throughout December, members of the public are encouraged to donate to the charity as an alternative way of giving and to make their season’s greetings go further by helping those who are less fortunate. 

Volunteers have decorated a tree in Exeter city centre to raise awareness of the work of Westbank Community Health and Care as part of this year’s Princesshay Charity Christmas Tree Festival. Alongside this, Westbank is running three campaigns this festive season: Give a Gift, Donate in Lieu of a Card and Donate to Westbank’s Reverse Advent Calendar.

Westbank relies on donations to deliver a wide range of self-funded services in the community, and these campaigns are a simple, practical and meaningful way to give an extra gift to the community or in place of a Christmas gift or card for someone special. People can donate £5, £10, £20 or an amount of their choice to enable more people across Devon to lead fulfilled, healthier, happier lives for longer.

Westbank’s Reverse Advent Calendar, launched on 1st December, is a fun and festive way to support Westbank’s Community Larders and Christmas hampers during this special time of year. It’s easy to take part. Simply download the calendar from Westbank’s website, print it out, grab a cardboard box, and use the guide to add one item each day. It can be joined at any point during Advent, so there’s still time to make a contribution that will help sustain individuals and families this Christmas. 

Katie Elliot, Westbank’s Head of Marketing and Fundraising says, “We hope as many people as possible will back our fundraising initiatives in the run up to Christmas. Westbank supports people in need throughout the year, however, feelings of loneliness and social isolation are heightened during the festive season. A donation of any size in lieu of a gift or a Christmas card can make a real difference, and our Reverse Christmas Card will help to put food on the table for families who are struggling with the cost of living. We're grateful for any amount people can spare."

Details of all the campaigns can be found at: westbank.org.uk