HCF & Hereford Times Christmas Appeal

We are running a joint appeal with Hereford Times this Christmas to support young people in Herefordshire. We are raising funds for Close House.

Young people in Herefordshire seem to be facing more challenges than ever. Some are still deeply affected by the Covid pandemic, during which schools were closed, medical services restricted and the routines of the most vulnerable disrupted.

That is why we were keen to lend our support to a charity that specifically helps young people.

Close House is a youth centre just off Commercial Street in Hereford that helps those aged between 11 and 24 to become more mature and develop skills to lead full lives.

The charity aims to break cycles of negative experiences and behaviour that some young people face, instead enabling them to find more control over the direction their lives take. It aims to bring hope and aspiration to those who are vulnerable, disadvantaged or socially excluded.

Ben Lea, Close House manager, said: “We give young people space to grow on their own terms, so that they can navigate their own feelings and emotions. We do this best through our sessions where we focus on work-readiness, help with school tensions and self-esteem, and explore the creative arts and community volunteering. The Hereford Times Christmas Appeal will pay for activities, workshops, and trips for our young people throughout the year.”

The appeal will remain open until December 31, 2023.