In the United Kingdom, the Magna Carta deck of the National Association of Seadogs/Pyrates Confraternity is engaging in a commendable initiative this Christmas, supporting Crisis. A national charity for people experiencing homelessness, Crisis helps people directly out of homelessness and campaigns for the changes needed to solve it altogether.

This fundraising initiative represents the inaugural activity in a series designed by the new members of NAS Magna Carta to elevate awareness and support, especially within the ethnic minority communities, for UK charities combating homelessness.

Alarming statistics from Crisis underscores the necessity of such initiatives: “On any given night, tens of thousands of families and individuals are experiencing the worst forms of homelessness across Great Britain.” This includes nearly a quarter of a million households across the UK enduring the severity of rough sleeping, sofa surfing, and residing in unsuitable temporary accommodations like B&Bs. A representative from Crisis highlighted, “The increase in rough sleeping, particularly exacerbated by the current cost-of-living crisis, has led to a significant rise in people experiencing homelessness.”

This issue becomes more acute during the Christmas season. In response, through their association with the Crisis at Christmas charity appeal, the Pyrates of Magna Carta aim to ensure that this Christmas marks the last night on the streets for many. This fundraising and awareness initiative arises from the awareness within the community of the challenges of the “jakpa” migration phenomenon. Additionally, from the drug abuse awareness initiative by Magna Carta’s new members a few months ago, insights gained indicate that substance abuse is especially poignant in the issue of homelessness.

Research by Crisis indicates that “for many, life events like a relationship breaking down, losing a job, mental or physical health problems, or substance misuse put people under considerable strain”.Homelessness can exacerbate these problems. However, it is encouraging that, according to Crisis, “in nearly all cases homelessness is preventable, and in every case, it can be ended”.

This underscores why the new members of NAS Magna Carta are spearheading this project as part of their year-long new members community initiative. The six-person team is mobilising efforts to raise funds through various events and donation channels, ensuring transparency and effectiveness in their support for Crisis. Dr Chukwudi Nwigwe, the Capoon of Magna Carta, opines, “Our deckhands’ commitment to support those in need this Christmas is a manifestation of our membership voyage’s course of humanistic ideals. By supporting Crisis and contributing to the gift of shelter and warmth, we are lighting a beacon of hope for those whose life’s journey may be going through the turbulence of homelessness.”

This campaign resonates with the spirit of giving. As the Deckhands of NAS Magna Carta put it, “The greatest gift you can offer is to bring a smile to someone’s face, and what better way than supporting Crisis provide a roof for someone in need?” Crisis validates this sentiment: “Your donation helps provide a place for people experiencing homelessness to rest their heads, as well as helping them to upskill, navigate housing, access healthcare and much more, so they can build a life beyond homelessness.”

Personal stories from those aided by Crisis add a human touch and show that every donation to Crisis makes a significant difference. Michelle, a beneficiary, shares, “I was sleeping rough for six months. But my first day at Crisis helped me feel safe. It was like a weight had been lifted. Now I can focus on my future.”

Magna Carta deck’s support of Crisis is a significant step towards mitigating homelessness in the UK, offering immediate relief and raising awareness for future endeavours. The project team plans more activities next year to continue raising awareness and support for UK charities like Crisis, working to reduce homelessness.

Chukwudi Onwudinanti
Second Mate, Magna Carta Deck