Mayor of Lewisham launches winter charity appeal for Lewisham Donation Hub

Founded during the Covid-19 pandemic by local resident Laurence Smith, the Hub is run almost entirely by volunteers. It provides essential items – from food and clothing to household goods – to anyone facing hardship. There are no referrals and no barriers, just community-powered compassion.
This winter, the Hub is aiming to raise £60,000 to sustain its work into 2026. Financial donations help keep shelves stocked, doors open, and volunteers ready to welcome anyone in need.

Your donation today could:

• provide urgent essentials to a family in crisis—food, clothing, and household items when they need them most
• connect a parent with caring volunteers who offer support now and in the tough times ahead
• help a family rebuild stability and dignity by accessing resources and guidance to create a safer home

And even a small gift goes a long way:

• just £10 can stretch to provide around £90 worth of essential toiletries thanks to bulk buying – a small gift that makes a big difference
• £20 could keep someone warm with a pair of winter gloves, offering comfort to those sleeping rough or living without heating
• £40 can help someone enjoy a hot meal again by funding a microwave, giving them a simple way to heat food

One-off or regular donations can be made via the Hub’s JustGiving page.

In addition to financial support, the Hub urgently needs donations of:

• warm clothing (jackets, scarves, hats, gloves, men’s winter wear)
• comfortable shoes (trainers, boots, school shoes)
• sleeping bags, tents, roll mats, hiking backpacks, suitcases
• smartphones, tablets, laptops (unlocked and wiped, with ‘Find My Device’ off)
• household items (microwaves, kitchenware, essential electricals)
• toiletries, nappies, incontinence pads, pet food
• non-perishable food, umbrellas, supermarket bags, label-free jam jars
• newborn/double pram systems

Donations can be dropped off Tuesdays to Thursdays, between 12 to 5pm, but residents are encouraged to check the Hub’s website before visiting, as needs change rapidly in winter.

Brenda Dacres OBE, Mayor of Lewisham, said: 

“Lewisham Donation Hub embodies the spirit of our borough – compassion, resilience and community. By supporting this appeal, we can ensure no one in Lewisham goes without this winter.”

What does it mean to be the Mayor’s chosen charity?

Through the Mayor’s Charity programme, Lewisham Donation Hub receives Council support and extra visibility via the Speaker of Lewisham, who promotes awareness and fundraising by hosting charity dinners, attending local events and engaging with the community.

Find out more and how you can help at check out the Lewisham Donation Hub webpage.