Building financial sustainability to meet urgent needs
Unrestricted funds allow CUF to respond quickly to urgent needs and long-term challenges, ensuring communities across the UK receive essential support when it matters most. The generosity of supporters, alongside fundraising initiatives, has been instrumental in sustaining our work.
Key impact and fundraising initiatives
- Community-led fundraising: Local groups and churches have raised substantial funds through sponsored events and campaigns.
- Giving in wills: More supporters are choosing to leave a legacy gift, ensuring future stability for CUF’s initiatives.
From homelessness to community Colin’s journey
For 12 months, Colin lived in a tent on a golf course, struggling without hot food, stability or support after the loss of his father. Everything changed when Colin discovered a Place of Welcome at his local church.
It’s welcoming, warm, and friendly. Everyone here is nice and there is always food for everyone,” he says. Through the support of CUF initiatives, he found temporary housing and a community that valued him.
Determined to give back, Colin now volunteers, using his skills to support others. “They’ve helped me, so now I’m going to help them,” he says. His story is a testament to the power of generosity and the life-changing impact of CUF’s work. Every donation to CUF helps build stronger, more welcoming communities. With continued support, we can help more people like Colin find stability, purpose, and a place to belong.
Royston Rough Sleepers Solidarity in action
For the past eight years, a dedicated group from Royston has braved the freezing winter nights to raise vital funds for CUF’s homelessness initiatives. Their annual Advent Sleepout in a Hertfordshire churchyard has raised an incredible £40,000, offering vital support to those experiencing homelessness.
We wanted something that helped us act in solidarity with people forced to sleep rough,” explains Andrew, one of the sleepout’s organisers. “It’s just one night for us, but for those experiencing homelessness, it’s every night.” The event has drawn widespread local support, with businesses, churches, and individuals contributing generously despite financial pressures.
