Gifts for the homeless in Harrogate

David Randall from the Harrogate Homeless Project, received gift bags, made up by the women of the Relief Society organisation in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (sometimes nicknamed “Mormons”).

Also in attendance was Mrs Lynn Purser, the current President of the Relief Society in Harrogate and Mr Greg Carson, one of the local Church leaders.

In all, 50 bags, containing toiletries and other essential items, were donated to the local charity, for those sleeping rough on the streets of Harrogate.

Mr Randall attended a Christmas dinner at the church, and then, following the meal, gave a short presentation on the charity’s work. He explained that, while attending that event, about 42 people would be sleeping on the streets of Harrogate that night. He emphasised the need to make people aware that Harrogate has a homeless problem, despite its affluent reputation.

The Relief Society (RS) is a philanthropic and educational women’s organisation within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church). Founded in 1842, the Relief Society is one of the oldest and largest women’s organisations in the world with approximately 6 million members in over 170 countries.

The Relief Society in Harrogate have often been involved in donating goods to charities abroad, but felt a need to support a local cause this year. They hope to continue the links with this charity throughout 2013.

Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints from the Harrogate, Thirsk, Ripon, Wetherby and Pately Bridge areas meet at 10:00am every Sunday at the Church building on Wetherby Road, HG2 3AS.

All are welcome. Additionally, youth between the ages of 12-18 meet for fun activities every Tuesday evening at 7:00pm at the Chapel.