CHRISTMAS is traditionally a time of familial celebration and happiness. However, for those suffering from domestic abuse, it can be a period of heartbreak and distress.

Celtic FC Foundation’s Christmas Appeal spotlight series now looks at one our beneficiaries addressing domestic abuse this Christmas, Glasgow East Women’s Aid.

Operating in the north and east of the city, Glasgow East Women’s Aid (GEWA) provide holistic support for women and children living in traumatic home environments.

GEWA offer support through numerous initiatives seeking to improve the lives and well-being of service users including refuge and initial intervention, as well as giving information on services, legal rights, housing issues, benefit advice and on issues of concern for women, children and young people.

On the challenges facing women and children requiring support, Anne Smith, Project Development Officer at GEWA said: “Sadly, domestic abuse never goes away and as Christmas approaches we have many families wondering how they can provide gifts for their children. 

“This year has been particularly arduous, leading to GEWA having to secure funding for a benefits’ advisor who cannot cope with the amount of referrals for DWP sanctions and appeals.  

“Women and children wonder how they will survive on a daily basis and can’t begin to comprehend what they will do for Christmas.”

Through Celtic FC Foundation’s Christmas Appeal, GEWA will be able to offer their services user respite and relief from their plight during the festive season and beyond.

Anne said: “Domestic abuse brings a huge sense of loss particularly for children. Leaving the home they know, their father, toys and often pets.

“We do not delude ourselves by thinking we can make this up to them, however, having special food and gifts for Christmas make the transition a little easier.” 

For most of us, Christmas is a time of joy. It’s different for those facing poverty and hardship.

Through this year’s Appeal, we want to help around 200 local families provide a happy Christmas for their children.

We also want to support 10 charities that care for those experiencing homeless or other disadvantage, including Glasgow East Women’s Aid, Scottish Refugee Council, The Salvation Army, The Invisibles, Glasgow City Mission, The Wayside Club Centre and Loaves & Fishes.

But we can’t do this without you.

Please follow the Celtic Way to help us give back this Christmas.

You can get behind the 2015 Christmas Appeal in the following ways:

– Donate by Text – text ‘CELT07’ followed by ‘£1’, ‘£5’ or ‘£10’ to 70070

– Donate Online – HERE

– Donate in Cash – there are collection boxes located in all Celtic Stores

– Donate by Cheque – payable to ‘Celtic FC Foundation’ and sent to Celtic FC Foundation, Celtic Park, Glasgow, G40 3RE.

– Take part in our Christmas Appeal Bucket Collection – HERE

– Take part in our Champion Challenge – http://www.celticfc.net/news/9488

– Come along to our Ghirls for Good ladies lunch on Saturday, December 12 –http://www.celticfc.net/news/9406

– Give as You Live via your Christmas shopping – HERE

Any support you give this Christmas will help those who need it most. Thank you for making a difference.