Celebrities Advocate for Crisis Charity’s Christmas Appeal to Combat Homelessness

Golda Rosheuvel, recognized for her role as Queen Charlotte in the popular Netflix series Bridgerton, has encouraged London residents “to get involved and make a real difference” during the Christmas period. Ms. Rosheuvel visited the warehouse of the homeless charity Crisis to advocate for its seasonal appeal. She expressed her belief that “a lot of people don’t have a community, don’t have family to fall back on.” She further stated, “Crisis really creates that safe space for them to come and have a community, and get to know themselves again, find themselves again, in these hard times.” The actor, whose credits also include prominent British television shows like Luther, Coronation Street, and Silent Witness, remarked: “I think to try and bring joy to people who are suffering is a really important thing to do, and Crisis is at the forefront of that, especially over Christmas.” At the charity’s east London warehouse, donations such as food, clothing, toiletries, games, and activities are arranged before their distribution as part of Christmas services throughout the city. Crisis additionally plans to offer hotel accommodations in London for over 570 individuals who would otherwise experience homelessness during Christmas. Concurrently, it will open day centres throughout the capital to assist those in precarious living conditions, including hostels. The organization further aids individuals in securing stable housing and enhancing their skills and confidence to reconstruct their lives, moving away from homelessness. Bessie Carter, Ms. Rosheuvel’s fellow Bridgerton cast member who portrays Prudence Featherington, characterized Crisis as a “phenomenal charity”. She conveyed a straightforward message to prospective donors for Christmas: “If we have, we should give.” She continued: “Christmas is a time to give people a real feeling of safety and warmth and dignity. Crisis does that in the form of putting these guests up in hotels… it is the beginning of the end of their homelessness. “It’s not just a holiday. It is the beginning of them finding stability.” Matt Downie, the head of Crisis, stated that no one should be compelled to experience Christmas “without the warmth and security” of a safe home. He further commented: “Our Christmas services simply wouldn’t be possible without the dedication of our volunteers who ensure every single guest feels a sense of belonging.” For more content, the best of BBC Radio London is available on Sounds, and BBC London can be followed on Facebook, X, and Instagram. Story ideas can be submitted to hello.bbclondon@bbc.co.uk. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights are reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content found on external websites. Information regarding its approach to external linking is available.