One person can make a huge difference. Two years ago, a young man called Connor saw the issue of homelessness in his hometown of Gateshead and decided he wanted to do something about it.
So, he got in touch with his local homelessness charity, Oasis Community Housing, and asked how he could make a difference.
“I don’t like anyone being homeless and out in the cold. Everyone should be in a warm home and happy. That’s why I’m glad to be helping Oasis Community Housing to support people facing homelessness with everything they need,” said Connor.
After a brainstorm with the team at Oasis Community Housing, Connor decided to use his enthusiasm for creating imaginative outdoor displays to raise vital funds for the charity. He had the drive and now the idea.
He set about decorating his house with his first seasonal display, a Christmas lights show complete with inflatable snowmen and fluorescent decorations, which raised £200 over the Christmas period.
A series of seasonal displays throughout the next year followed with each being unique in its design and representing a beacon of hope in the community.
Connor is determined to spread positivity with each display he creates. “I keep creating the displays to keep everyone feeling happy and to make something everyone can enjoy,” he said.
So far, Connor has raised over £600 with help from people in his local community to support the work of Oasis Community Housing and has no plans to stop.
As a Christian response to homelessness, Oasis Community Housing relies on its community of individual supporters like Connor to continue their work to bring hope to the nearly 1,300 people facing homelessness that they support each year.
Connor’s story is a reminder that anyone can make a difference in their community.
All you need is an idea and the drive to make an impact.
Ben Johnston
Fundraising Engagement Officer,
Oasis Community Housing
Reflect
'Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.’
1 Thessalonians 5:11
Pray
Pray for the person who will receive your jar – that each note would lift their heart and strengthen their faith.
Ask God to fill your mind with words that build others up and remind them of His love.
Thank Him that encouragement is one of the simplest and most powerful gifts we can give.
Act
A generosity challenge for you to complete today:
| Fill a jar with short notes of encouragement, truth or Scripture and gift it to someone who could use daily reminders that they’re seen, valued and loved. One note a day, a well of kindness. |
About Oasis Community Housing
Oasis Community Housing is a Christian charity helping people out of homelessness through housing, support and relationship-based care that tackles both immediate needs and root causes.
Each year they walk alongside nearly 1,300 people, providing stable accommodation and skills for independent living, particularly supporting young people at risk.
Support Oasis Community Housing
