A former bar manager who experienced homelessness as a teenager is expanding her heartfelt mission to ensure nobody in Leicester spends Christmas Day alone or without a warm meal.
From Personal Struggle to Community Mission
Lauren McCormick knows the pain of festive isolation firsthand, having found herself without a home at the age of 16. She credits the local housing association, Foundation, with helping her secure accommodation and turn her life around. This personal history fuels her determination to support others.
"Last year, I set out on a small but powerful mission to make Christmas accessible to everyone," Lauren explained to LeicestershireLive. "I understand first-hand the hardships some may be suffering this festive season, whether that be homelessness or lack of support and people to be around."
Bigger Plans for Christmas 2024
Following the success of last year's community Christmas dinner at Omi Bar on Welford Road, Lauren is scaling up her efforts significantly. This year, her goal is to provide a festive meal and companionship for 250 people who are vulnerable, lonely, homeless, or living in shelters.
She has partnered with Ice Skate Leicester to amplify the event's warmth, joy, and community spirit. "Together, we're planning a bigger, more inclusive Christmas event filled with good food, laughter, and human connection, reminding people that they matter and they're not alone," Lauren said.
How the Public Can Help
The ambitious project relies entirely on public generosity. Donations will be used for several key purposes:
- Supplying hot Christmas meals and warm drinks.
- Providing gifts, winter clothing, and essential supplies.
- Covering venue, staffing, and accessibility costs.
- Creating a safe and welcoming Christmas experience for all attendees.
To manage the event safely, Lauren will be distributing referral or invite cards in the weeks leading up to Christmas Day. Those wishing to contribute financially can do so via the dedicated GoFundMe page: www.gofundme.com/f/help-make-christmas-accessible-to-all-in-leicester.
Lauren McCormick's initiative stands as a powerful testament to community spirit, transforming her own past challenges into a lifeline for hundreds of Leicester residents facing a difficult festive period.
