NOAH and Govia Thameslink Railway join forces to boost donations for Luton's homeless this Christmas

Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR) will join forces once again with NOAH Enterprise this Christmas to provide support for the homeless in Luton.

The Great Sock Appeal launched this week across the nation, the collection is returning for a second year after the successful 2019 launch.

With reports warning of further socio-economic fallout expected as a result of Covid-19 - The Trussell Trust has reported an 89% increase in the number of people accessing its foodbank network, compared to the same period last year - GTR is once again rallying its customers and employees to join forces and support those most in need ahead of the dreaded winter frosts.

This year’s collection will move to a virtual format, in recognition of the reduced number of passengers currently travelling due to the pandemic.

David Morris, CEO of NOAH Enterprise said: “We are most grateful for the support provided to us from Govia Thameslink Rail via their Sock Appeal campaign, especially in such a difficult time for all.

"The impact of COVID-19 on the community this year has been profound and will place so many more people in precarious employment, financial and accommodation situations, hence why NOAHs support and services have never been so vital.

"We are grateful and extend our thanks to the GTR team who have adjusted the successful Sock Appeal campaign, to ensure it continues in a safe but successful manner."

Instead of physical donations hubs, GTR is asking customers and staff to donate via its fundraising page, and has set its sights on matching last year’s donations to raise £8,344 which equates to 4,172 pairs of socks, with any additional donations to be split equally between the participating partners.

The appeal will end on Friday, December 11.

Often overlooked as an unimportant item, for those sleeping rough a pair of socks is essential for keeping feet warm and dry.

Without them there is great risk of blisters, fungal infections and even trench foot. This basic item of clothing helps to keep feet healthy, maintain good circulation and even manage diabetes.

Steve White, Chief Operating Officer at GTR said: "Through our work with NOAH Enterprise we’ve learnt just how much difference it makes to provide a new pair of socks and keep feet warm and dry.

"This year charitable donations are more important than ever before as we see our homelessness crisis worsen due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

“Christmas is a time for giving, and all it takes is one pair of socks, less than the price of a coffee, to improve the life of a homeless person this winter.

"We want to thank our customers, colleagues and local communities for their wonderful support for those in need.”

To make a donation to The Great Sock Appeal visit: www.crowdfunder.co.uk/great-sock-appeal.