The Cornish Christmas Giving Catalogue 2019 has been published by Cornwall Independent Poverty Forum.

The catalogue gives a mechanism for us all to be able to give to one of 20 charities – or any of Cornwall’s foodbanks – in lieu of a more traditional Christmas gift. The catalogue gives you the option of having a certificate sent to the recipient of your present, so they know a gift has been given in their name.

Writing in this year’s catalogue, the Bishop of Truro, the Rt Revd Philip Mounstephen, said: “At Christmas, as we remember Jesus who was born in poverty and became a refugee. This catalogue helps us keep issues such as these at the very forefront of our thinking.

‘Excellent work – and great need’

“I’ve only been Bishop of Truro for a relatively short time, but over those months I’ve been both struck by the excellent work so many local charities are undertaking, and alarmed by the great need right here in our own part of the world.

“So I do encourage you to use this Cornish Christmas Giving Catalogue to give gifts to family and friends and at the same time support these marvellous local projects.”

Independent

Cornwall Councillor Loic Rich added: “The projects and organisations listed here are local, independent, and respected in providing practical and worthwhile help to people in vulnerable circumstances. I hope you will agree that in a season of giving and goodwill, this is an apt and practical way to give.”

Project development manager, Paul Green, said: “Each year the Cornwall Independent Poverty Forum aims to raise £10,000 with the Cornwall Christmas Giving Catalogue Project, now in its seventh year.

‘Better than a scarf that’s never worn!’

“Rather than giving another pair of socks, or a scarf which may never be worn, why not do something good for the community?”

Gifts available through the catalogue start from just £1.00.

Among the charities featured are homelessness groups such as St Petroc’s Society and The DISC Project , as well as other projects such as Drama Express and Cafe Abundance.  Also included this year are Launceston Money Advice Centre and The Chaos Group Cornwall, as well as all of the food banks across the county.

To download the catalogue, click here.

For more information on the Cornwall Independent Poverty Forum click here.