The charity is asking the public to support those affected by homelessness and crisis by taking part in the Christmas Challenge which will see donations matched and multiplied by the Big Give during the first week of December.

The Big Give’s Christmas Challenge is the UK’s biggest match funding event. The campaign runs for seven days beginning at noon today and runs until noon on December 8, offering the chance for each donation made to have twice the impact. As a participating charity, public donations during this week will be doubled.

The charity, who has spent the year supporting thousands of people affected by homelessness, abuse, crisis, addiction, poverty, mental illness and other forms of social exclusion in the North East of Scotland is asking for people to help make a difference this Christmas.

The importance of a safe place to call home has been undeniable in 2020, and for those without, it has been devastating. With donations from the Christmas Challenge, the charity can provide support and comfort to people facing crisis, building a brighter future from a place of safety and security: Home.

Emily Mackenzie, marketing and fundraising assistant at Aberdeen Cyrenians, said: “We are really excited to be taking part in The Big Give, Christmas Challenge 2020. We’ve been fortunate enough to take part in previous years and it has been a fantastic opportunity for us to not only raise vital funds, but to engage with our supporters, local businesses and anyone else who has been kind enough to make a donation or offer support.

“Public generosity this year has been amazing, enabling us to provide nearly 20,000 care packages of food and other essentials such as toiletries, nappies, baby food, clothing, blankets, cooking items, fuel, and wellbeing support. For people who have been left in crisis by the pandemic, it has made the world of difference to know that others care, and in many cases, has been truly life-saving.

“All money raised from the Big Give will go towards services that help people to recover from crisis and build a brighter future, while we continue to provide the necessary emotional and practical support of everyday essentials to get through the crisis.”

She added: “The Big Give, Christmas Challenge also kicks off on ‘Giving Tuesday’ which is a global day of giving, so it really is a fantastic time for people to take part and come together to do something to support their local communities.

“We would like to thank everyone for their support during this difficult year and to those already waiting to donate to The Big Give, Christmas Challenge. From donating or sharing our campaign far and wide, it all makes a difference in helping us support those in need this Christmas.”

Donations can be made by visiting the website.