Lifeshare – Manchester’s oldest homelessness charity – has tapped into Manchester’s creative community to design a new range of limited-edition t-shirts to support its work over the Christmas period.
Designed by seven well-known Manchester artists, the t-shirts depict designs linked to eradicating or fighting homelessness. All t-shirts are available to pre-order now from www.lifeshare.org.uk and will be produced, packaged and mailed in time for Christmas.
The money raised will fund Lifeshare’s annual Christmas Project, which will see the charity open from 23rd – 29th of December to provide hot meals, showers, clean clothes and support to those that need it.
The design process was coordinated by long-term Lifeshare supporters Mikesian Studio, with all contributors creating the prints and offering their time free of charge.
Contributors include Donnie O’Donnell, Raissa Pardini, Babak Ganjei, David Bailey, Han Valentine, Mikesian Studio and Martyna Makes. The charity’s patron, Maxine Peake, has supported in modelling and promoting the range.
Long-time supporter of Lifeshare, Flood Clothing, will be printing the tees and getting them ready to go once pre-orders are collected by December 9th.
Judy Vickers, operational manager at Lifeshare, said: “Once again, we’ve looked to Manchester’s incredible creative community to develop a Christmas campaign that offers something a bit different, while helping us raise funds to support the many people we have who attend our Christmas Project.
“From December 23rd until December 29th, we open our doors to anyone who needs a hot meal, some Christmas company, showers, clean clothes or some just some festive fun and friendship. But as we all know, living costs are exceptional this year. Last year we served 3,340 meals; we’re expecting to serve over 4,000 this year. We need funds to offer the quality of service to our guests and enough food! This campaign will support this goal, while offering people an alternative Christmas present that’s not only worthwhile, but a great quality Tee.”
Actress Maxine Peake, Lifeshare’s Patron, said:“Lifeshare is always open to people who need its support – whether they are homeless or fighting food or fuel poverty. The festive period can be challenging for many people; but imagine being on the streets at this time as well. Lifeshare needs your support to bring a small bit of happiness to people who, without them, would be alone and hungry.
“What I always admire is the charity’s commitment to raising funds around this time of year by using creative solutions and working with Manchester’s amazing creative community – not just asking for cash! If you can afford one of these fabulous t-shirts, do purchase one and wear it with pride, as I will with mine!”
