This Christmas, Grassroots is proud to be supporting The Gatehouse’s Winter Appeal, helping to raise vital funds for Oxford’s homeless and vulnerably housed community. The appeal aims to raise £10,000 to support The Gatehouse’s drop-in centre and café in the centre of Oxford.
As festive decorations went up at Grassroots, a reindeer, complete with a knitted hat and scarf, took pride of place on the reception desk – the star of our fundraising initiative. There was just one problem: the reindeer didn’t have a name.
To solve this, visitors to Grassroots and members of the Innovation Centre community have been busy suggesting a name for the reindeer and donating to The Gatehouse’s Winter Appeal via their JustGiving page. Everyone who suggests a name and donates will be entered into a prize draw, with the winning name chosen at random. The lucky winner will not only get to name the reindeer but will also take the reindeer home in time for Christmas.
The competition has sparked plenty of festive cheer and conversation, with suggested names ranging from being Christmassy and creative to slightly more bizarre…entries so far have included Tinsel, Claus, Elsa, Sonny, Harriet, Rei-Rei, and even Monty Don.
Karen McKivitt, Assistant Centre Manager at Grassroots, said:
“We have a wonderful business community here at Grassroots, and it’s lovely to see so many people supporting this appeal. Winter can be an incredibly challenging time for those experiencing homelessness, and the support services that The Gatehouse provides are in increased demand at this time of year. I’m pleased that we’re able to help raise vital funds when their services are needed most.”
The Gatehouse has been supporting Oxford’s homeless and vulnerably housed community since 1988. Every day, the charity provides nourishing meals alongside essential services including warmth and shelter, vital supplies, and advice and support to help people move forward.
This festive fundraising initiative reflects Grassroots’ ongoing commitment to supporting local causes and making a positive difference within the Oxford community. At the time of writing, the appeal has already reached £6,544, so is well over half-way towards their target which the Gatehouse hopes to reach by February 2026.
Thank you to all those who have helped spread a little extra kindness this festive season. There’s still time to join in, just come meet the reindeer in reception to get some inspiration for a name and follow the link on the poster for donations.
To find our more about the Winter Appeal or to donate visit:
https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/winterappeal25-26
Merry Christmas!
