Christmas film chooses The Salvation Army as charity appeal

The first 40,000 DVDs of a new Christmas film, A Christmas Gift from Bob, will include details of The Salvation Army’s homelessness work and explain how people can donate to its frontline support.

The new film is based on the international best-selling book, A Street Cat Named Bob, which follows James Bowen and his best feline friend, Bob who met when they were both sleeping rough.

Many people living on the streets have pets that they love and care for. At The Salvation Army’s Lifehouses (supported housing for homeless people) support workers will always do their best to help pet owners as they recognise the important part their animals can have in a recovery.  

Some Lifehouses, such as Founders House Lifehouse in London, offer a place to stay and wrap around support for former rough sleepers who are animal owners.  

The Salvation Army’s Pottergate Arc drop-in centre in Norwich also welcomes dogs, providing a rest area for them while their owners get support. In addition to having dog food, leads and toys on hand, Pottergate Arc also works with the Dogs Trust’s Hope Project to make sure its four-legged clients can get essential veterinary care.

Nicola Darkins, Service Manager at The Salvation Army’s Pottergate Arc, said: “We know the level of connection and companionship a pet can develop with someone living on the streets and how important that can be for someone’s recovery.

“Because of this we wanted to offer support to those people who are homeless who have pets, by ensuring that the people themselves feel welcome and at home when they drop in to see us, but also that their pets are made just as welcome. This means their owners are more likely to accept the support they need to end their cycle of homelessness.”