Warm clothes for Christmas

Many men leave prison. whether at the end of their prison sentence or released not guilty, without any warm clothing. They often face very challenging circumstances, such as homelessness,  sleeping rough on the streets or in a tent, or living in hostels which can be tough even for someone used to prison life. 

The Wandsworth Prison Welfare Trust (the charity set up by Liz Bridge, one of the founders of WPIC) is launching a Christmas Appeal to provide men leaving Wandsworth Prison this winter with warm clothes. The aim is to make sure no-one leaves the prison this winter without the offer of new socks, vests, underwear, joggers or tracksuit bottoms, fleeces or hoodies, and warm, waterproof winter jackets.

WPWT asks that donations consist of new items, particularly the underwear, joggers and tracksuit bottoms, as these are difficult to find in good condition for men and in sizes that will fit a multitude of different heights and shapes. New items also help maintain dignity and make distribution easier and safer.. 

The ask

So could you help to kit out a man to leave prison? Or could you keep five men in pants?  Or send a vest ?  It would be so appreciated.

How to help

WPWT knows from previous appeals that many people find buying online an easy way to donate. For example, Primark online has very suitable jogging bottoms for £6-£9, and packets of 5 boxers for £16 

Any size will do - maybe the size of a man you love -that will make you smile and make the gift a bit special!  

But please don’t buy black joggers or white underwear or send any second hand clothes except short waterproof padded jackets and fleece tops.

Where to send clothes

If you buy online or post clothes bought locally,  the delivery address is:

WPWT Christmas Appeal, HMP Wandsworth, Heathfield Road, London SW18 3HU  

Sending money instead

And if that all seems a bit difficult, please send a donation to WPWT and they will buy what they need to top up the donations of clothes and it will help to keep a full range of sizes and items.

Cash donations can be made through the WPWT website where there is a donate button:

https://www.wpwt.org.uk

About WPWT

WPWT is a registered charity that works to provide prisoners in Wandsworth Prison with basic amenities, resources  and activities within the prison and  to give them the best chance of rehabilitation and integration into the community when they are released.  In 2020 and 2022 the WPWT Christmas appeal received over 3500 knitted hats , in 2021 and 2013 they had more than 7000 pairs of socks. This generosity brought a great deal of surprise and laughter and comfort to a world that is often without much hope.

 Thank you for your kindness, compassion and support.