By Noelle Williamson
It’s time for the annual ‘pant drive’ at St Wilfrid’s Parish Church in Calverley!
The church is accepting donations of new underwear for Leeds Women’s Aid.
Vicar Rob Denton wrote in the parish newsletter: “A couple of years ago we had a talk from Leeds Women’s Refuge, who told us that the numbers of women fleeing domestic violence always goes up at this time of year.
“Let’s see what we can do to be a part of putting joy and hope in Christmas this year, a tangible sign to people that they are loved and worthy. As ever, whichever size you would usually buy. And why not add a hat scarf or gloves, or bubble bath, shampoo and conditioner, etc.”
The Rev Denton continued: “We would like to offer gifts of pampering lotions, potions, make-up, scarves, gloves, hats – and nice packs of undies – to women who have fled domestic abuse and are in refuges this Christmas.”
He is encouraging people to bring any gifts that might bring a ‘bit of joy’ on Sunday, 14 December.
For anyone wishing to drop donations at St Wilfrid’s, the church will be open:
- Saturday, 13 December
- 9am – Decorating the church for Christmas
- 2-6pm – Winter Fair
- Sunday, 14 December
- 9.15am – Traditional Communion Service
- 11am – All-Age Service of the Word with kids church
- 4pm – Walking Nativity
One resident at the refuge said: “When I came to the refuge I did not know what to expect.
“Christmas is a time for families and I was worried about the children missing out. But with all the kids gifts they received, the voucher and gifts I received, the Christmas tree that I was able to decorate with my children – all these things helped to make Christmas a very special time for us all. I cannot thank you enough.”
Last Christmas over 20 individuals, community groups and corporate supporters held donation drives on behalf of Leeds Women’s Aid.
The support ensured that every woman, child and young person staying with us received gifts. Items donated include handmade Christmas stockings, toiletry gift sets, fluffy socks and blankets, craft items, family games toys, chocolates and more.
One in four women in England and Wales will experience domestic abuse in their lifetime. Two women a week are killed by a current or former partner. Between January – December 2024 Leeds Women’s Refuge received 8,700 total Helpline contacts.76% contacts with Helpline are via telephone, 19% are via email, 5% are via webchat.
- Visit the Leeds Women’s Aid website.
Sponsored content
