Sending Hope, Not Cards This Christmas

Being organised is my ‘thing’, but Christmas cards have always been my downfall. For someone who loves a creative project, I’ve just never really been into Christmas cards (sorry Santa!)

I recently heard that the average person can spend up to £50 on buying, writing and posting Christmas cards… Cards which, within weeks, are often forgotten about and binned (unless you’re quite crafty then maybe you cut them up for gift tags for next year – if so, bravo!)

This year, on behalf of First Steps ED, I want to encourage our stakeholders and supporters to consider making a small donation to First Steps ED, in lieu of the usual Christmas card haul and together we can all send a wave of hope to those struggling this Christmas.

Not convinced? Here are a few more reasons why you should send hope, not cards, this year!

It’s much quicker and easier.

I think my less-than-enthusiastic view of Christmas cards comes from the time and effort it takes to get it done. Who am I going to forget this year? How formal or informal do I need to be? And when will I find time to post them?

The festive season is supposed to be a time to relax and indulge in some holiday cheer, not spending your evening with hand-ache from all those cards. Making a donation and sharing it with your family and friends is quick, simple and easy. In fact, our team have even created this handy Christmas postcard which you can share via email or social media to let your friends know you have donated, leaving you all that extra time to enjoy the festivities with your family and friends.

It’s the environmentally friendly option.

I’m sure there is a better time and place to get into the nitty-gritty of Christmas cards and their impact on the environment. In an age where we are all talking about climate change and trying to be more eco-friendly, a donation to charity and a digital festive email or e-card is by far the better option for the planet.

It sends a message of hope and understanding.

If you’re here reading the First Steps ED blog, I’m going to presume you know what we do (if you don’t, click here!)

Mental health has been at the forefront of many minds and media outlets for the last 18 months, maybe longer, but do your loved ones and acquaintances really know the local charities and services that are available to them, should they never need us?

It helps us to raise vital funds that helps us grow our services and continue to break down barriers and stigmas which might otherwise prevent someone from reaching out for support.

It has been a turbulent time for those struggling with their mental health. We have seen a lot of uncertainty and change in the last two years but one thing that remains the same is our focus and passion to bring hope and support to those who need our services.

The impact of the pandemic is unmistakable and referrals for First Steps ED continue to increase week on week. Your support and any donation, no matter how small, makes a huge difference in our delivery. Vital fundraising helps us increase our service options, introduce new resources, offer training to professionals and visit schools to provide information and education to children and young people.

A Christmas card might be disposable, but our mental health is not. Donate today.