The Salvation Army church and community centre in Cheltenham has issued a heartfelt thank you to local businesses, residents and volunteers following the success of its 2025 Christmas Appeal.
An exceptional response from across the town ensured hundreds of vulnerable families in Cheltenham and surrounding areas received vital support during the festive season, providing both practical help and a strong sense of community care.
Throughout December, the Salvation Army brass band played a visible role in the appeal, performing Christmas carols at locations including the High Street, Marks & Spencer, Tesco and community events. Shoppers and passers-by stopped to listen and donated generously, helping to make the appeal one of the most successful in recent years.
As a result of the campaign, 500 food parcels were prepared and distributed through partner agencies to households facing hardship. In addition, 558 children and young people received brand-new Christmas presents, helping families experiencing difficult circumstances enjoy the festive period.
Captains Rachel and Tom Dunham, leaders of The Salvation Army in Cheltenham, said they were overwhelmed by the level of kindness shown. “From major business partners to individuals placing a coin in a collection bucket, every contribution mattered,” they said. “Financial gifts, donated toys, encouraging words and volunteer time all combined to create a wave of compassion that reached so many people in need.”
They also thanked the businesses that hosted collections, the volunteers who packed and delivered parcels, and the partner organisations that helped identify families requiring support.
The Salvation Army continues its work in Cheltenham throughout the year, offering food support, friendship and practical help alongside spiritual care. The community centre’s foodbank is open every Monday from 11am to 3pm, providing food and essential toiletries to those in need.
A publicly accessible defibrillator has also been installed on the outside of the church building, available 24 hours a day, reinforcing the organisation’s commitment to community wellbeing and safety.