Caritas Salford has joined forces with Manchester’s Doodledo to create a special animation which aims to support of those facing crisis this Christmas.
The animation, which stars the voices of local children, highlights the fact that everyone deserves a chance at fulfilling their dreams and encourages people to pledge to make a small change that could make a big difference this Christmas.
Patrick O’Dowd, director of Caritas Salford, said: “With so much going on in the world, from wars and climate change, to homelessness, poverty and the extreme crisis situations brought on by the cost-of-living crisis, it can sometimes feel overwhelming and hard to know how to help.
“But, we know that even the smallest of positive actions can have a huge impact. Whether that’s a kind word to a neighbour facing isolation, a warm meal for a loved one who isn’t well, or even a smile on the morning commute, the little things can really mean a lot. Big dreams really can come from small change.
“This is arguably more important now than ever. We’re seeing significant increases in the demand for our services as more and more people hit crisis point. Hardworking individuals and families who are battling every day to try and keep things going, to keep food on the table, to keep a roof over their head.
“When the fundamentals like a safe secure home or a full tummy for your child aren’t there, it can be easy to lose sight of your bigger dreams too. But, everyone has dreams, whatever situation they may be experiencing, and this Christmas we want your help to give people the freedom to dream again.”
The animation features a cast of young bee characters talking about their dreams and wishes, and what they would do if they encountered someone who didn’t have access to the things many of us take for granted. The children were given free rein to answer the questions, resulting in some thought-provoking responses.
James Torry, founder of Doodledo, said: “This is our second year of supporting the Caritas Salford Advent appeal so it’s fantastic to be able to bring more characters to life, get even more creative, and hopefully make a big difference.
“We wanted to take people back to that childhood version of themselves that believed anything was possible. And hearing these kids give their perspectives on some big societal issues reminds you how simple it can be. So we’re hoping it resonates and people will do something to help this brilliant organisation support people in our communities.”
Caritas Salford supports people across Greater Manchester and Lancashire who are experiencing poverty, homelessness or discrimination via a wide range of community and outreach services.
O’Dowd added: “By helping with even a small donation and pledging to #BeeThere this Christmas, you can enable us to provide vital support at a time people need it most.
“We can help them to not only transform their lives with dignity, but also to have the ability to look ahead and dream about the life they want for themselves and those closest to them too.
“If everyone who watched our film pledged to #BeeThere for just one person this Christmas, we really could help them get back on their feet and a step closer to making those dreams and wishes come true. Big dreams really do come from small change.”
The latest campaign follows a similar link up between Doodledo and Caritas to support the homeless in Greater Manchester and Lancashire last Christmas.
