Uncategorized
People of St Martin’s: David
“I first became aware of the vital work that St Martin in the Fields does for the homeless when listening to the Radio 4 Christmas Appeal many years ago, hearing the story of a very talented and successful opera singer, who had sadly fallen on hard times and ended up homeless, before being rescued by…
People of St Martin’s: Lucy
“I first joined the Christmas volunteer team in 2015 and walked into a warm welcome! I already knew of the wonderful work of St. Martins and, having moved back to my London “roots” a couple of years earlier, was attracted by the location and seasonal experience! As the work only occupies one month of the…
People of St Martin’s: Dermot
“I describe myself as a Christian atheist or, sometimes, an infidel. But also, someone with a sense of justice who hates unfairness. Having long admired Sam Wells’ sermons from Duke University, his wise words of humanity and sense very often made a huge impression. This, combined with my strange fascination for religions and for churches,…
People of St Martin’s: Bitenge
“The African Refugee Community provides psycho-social assistance to asylum seekers, refugees and people who are destitute. We assist them in different contexts during their relocation processes in the UK. The African Refugee Community has been receiving VRF grants to support our service users for many years, and I have seen the positive impact that this…
People of St Martin’s: Janet
“I have donated in memory of Norman Ingram Smith, who I knew many years ago when we ran St Luke’s Hostel in Kennington. He pioneered a residential care for people with alcohol misuse problems at the hostel under Donald Soper, with his vision of care for people who are homeless. A few years later, they…
People of St Martin’s: Mrs Butterworth
“My mother and sister have always supported St Martins. So, I guess the decision to support the charity just comes from my family story, really. My sister, she was a teacher, and she even referred a couple of people that were going through a rough time to your work. She said: ‘you can turn to…
People of St Martin’s: Paul
“During the Covid-19 outbreak, I found myself making PPE as an offshoot of my hobby printing with 3D printers. I made it primarily for care homes, but I have supplied Doctors, food banks and Post Office workers, all of whom indicated they are happy to make a donation for charitable causes. I don’t make a…
The 2019 BBC Radio 4 Christmas Appeal
This year’s Christmas Appeal revolved around the Theme “Home Starts Here”. Home can mean different things to different people. However, most of us will think of similar things when we think of Home. Belonging, warmth, safety. A project we have and continue to work for. Something we plan for. Something we rely on. Homelessness isn’t…