Update from LHM: October to December 2024

An Eventful and Impactful Quarter at LHM

As we reflect on the final quarter of 2024, LHM has had an eventful and productive few months. With rising footfall, exciting activities, Harvest, and preparations for the Annual Homelessness Service, the Remembrance Service and the festive season, here’s a snapshot of what’s been happening at LHM.

October: Record Numbers and Harvest

October 2024 marked our busiest month since reopening, with 3,812 meals served. This is a significant increase from 3,039 meals served in October 2023 and an even bigger jump from 2,253 meals in October 2022. It was an exceptionally challenging time, with over 100 lunches becoming the norm rather than an exception. Despite this, the team worked tirelessly to maintain a welcoming and positive environment.

Harvest preparations and collections were a significant focus this month. So many churches from Glasgow and the surrounding areas generously gave us donations, which were a tremendous help during these tough times. Claire, our Chaplain, was there to greet people as they arrived, letting everyone know the impact of their kindness. Mark and Chris did an excellent job coordinating client involvement and managing volunteers to handle the donations efficiently.  Although the overall quantity of produce was less than in previous years, we appreciate that the cost-of-living crisis has hit all of us. We are, as always, deeply grateful for the support received.

Activities remained popular, with highlights including a line dancing workshop, choir sessions, and external trips like Go Karting and the Falkirk Wheel. These activities continue to have a positive impact on mental health and wellbeing.

Other notable events included Angela hosting a successful disco/karaoke evening with the Halliday Foundation, a new NA group starting on Tuesday mornings, and productive property discussions with Page and Park. We also had our Annual Homelessness Service attended by the Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland Rt Rev Dr Shaw James Paterson. Additionally, we were delighted to have Allan Lafferty every Tuesday (thanks to Kelvin West Parish Church).

November: New Partnerships and Steady Progress

In November, attendance numbers dipped slightly, although the hall never felt quiet. That said, we provided 3,219 meals and the team remained as committed as ever despite a challenging month with annual leave and staff sickness.

We were thrilled to host the Moderator of Glasgow, Jan Mathieson (you can read about her visit here), who enjoyed her visit, and corporate volunteers continued to bring fresh energy into the centre. Preparations for funding applications also gained momentum, with tailored pitches being crafted collaboratively by key team members.

Activities this month were primarily internal due to the colder weather, including visits to the Burrell Collection and GOMA, alongside ongoing choir, and swimming sessions. Angela, as always, was busy providing predominantly emotional support to clients, particularly as they faced financial and mental pressures leading up to Christmas.

During November we hosted our Remembrance Service, allowing those we support to remember people lost that year and beyond. As always, this is a touching and heartfelt gathering, giving people the time to reflect on their loss in a safe space.

December: Festive Spirit and New Beginnings

December brought an increase in numbers compared to November, with 3,415 meals served. The highlight was undoubtedly Christmas Day, when 98 guests enjoyed a beautifully decorated hall, gifts, and a gorgeous lunch (ingredients courtesy of Social Bite). Big thanks to the efforts of staff and volunteers who went the extra mile to make this day very special.  Look at how this year compares to 2022 and 2023.

Volunteers played a key role throughout the month, despite some being affected by illness. Corporate volunteers continued to contribute greatly to the organisation, helping wherever needed. This help is invaluable to the team.

Our Christmas trees were put up to help get people into the spirit of things. Activities like Christmas karaoke, the Glasgow Life pantomime, Christmas Raffle and a performance by the Haver Quartet helped greatly with that.

We also experienced poignant moments, such as the loss of our long-term volunteer, Jim McLaughlin. Jim had been with us for over a decade and turned his hand to anything that needed to be done. His 'superpower' was knowing what people liked in their tea or coffee—he just remembered everyone. His absence will be felt for a long time to come.

Additional highlights included Angela’s participation in the rough sleepers count, which recorded 27 individuals. Several organisations took place, allowing a lot of ground to be covered in search for people without shelter. Claire, our Chaplain, hosted a fabulous and well-attended Carol service.

Conclusion: A Quarter of Dedication and Resilience

This quarter has been an intense yet rewarding time for LHM. From record-breaking numbers in October to the heartfelt festivities of December, the team has demonstrated extraordinary resilience and dedication.

We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to all our funders, donors, volunteers, and corporate volunteers for their invaluable contributions. Without their support, our work would not be possible.

As we move into 2025, we remain committed to meeting the needs of our community with compassion and care. Thank you to everyone who has supported us throughout the year. We look forward to continuing this journey together in the months to come!