FOLLOWING Celtic FC Foundation’s successful Sleep Out event at the weekend, our Christmas Appeal spotlight series continues by looking at the work of Loaves and Fishes, a Glasgow-based charity tackling hunger and poverty among the city’s homeless.

Operating for 26 years, Loaves and Fishes provide hot meals for the hungry as well as offering clothing, toiletries and a friendly ear.

Denis Curran, Chairman of Loaves and Fishes, spoke passionately about the work of the charity and emphasised the need for support this Christmas.

He said: “Loaves and Fishes is a voluntary charity. It’s totally dependent on people’s goodwill as we receive no government funding. No one gets paid, everyone gives up their time freely and no one is sent away hungry.

“Our doors are open to anybody, and any of us can be affected – who you are today isn’t necessarily who you’re going to be in a month’s time.”

Celtic FC Foundation has proudly supported Loaves and Fishes over a number of years and Denis was keen to point out that the generosity of individuals can go a long way.

He said: “The money we received last year from Celtic FC Foundation allowed us to put on an extra meal during the winter.

“Celtic FC Foundation’s contribution isn’t just giving money. Money is very important, however, it’s what comes with that money and the things you can do with it, it is about bringing hope back into people’s lives and you can’t put a price on that.

“When I go to someone’s house with a bag of groceries, you’re giving people hope that tomorrow is going to be different. You’re showing love to people that you have never met and that changes them, the idea that others care enough to share what they have.

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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 who care for those experiencing homeless or other disadvantage, including The Salvation Army, The Invisibles, Glasgow City Mission and The Wayside Club Centre.

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 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.