Today is World Kindness Day, and despite it falling on Friday 13th we are certainly feeling lucky reflecting on the kindness that surrounds the Clock Tower Sanctuary.
The young people that use our services prove that kindness and resilience go hand in hand; there’s strength in putting the needs of others before your own. Due to current health and safety restrictions a limited number of people can use the day centre at any one time. This has led to young people recognising those with most urgent need amongst them and offering to return another day if the centre is full. One client, Mia, explains that “you know there might be someone who needs to do stuff more than you right now, so we’ll just say, yeah, it’s cool, I can come back later… that’s kindness”.
Our amazing CTS volunteers give an enormous amount to the organisation. Their commitment, care and sense of humour add up to unsurmountable kindness. This year they’ve not wavered in the face of adversity and have given up their time (even throughout lockdown) to allow us to keep our doors open. Some volunteers who aren’t able to come into the centre in person are continuing work with clients over phone or video. From cooking meals to cleaning, sorting donations or sacrificing the last Jaffa Cake, we appreciate our staff and volunteers’ kindness every day. As one colleague put it – kindness is everyone helping each other “get through what has proved to be a most challenging year and for allowing me at times to not be my best”.
Lastly, we couldn’t talk about kindness without mentioning our wonderful supporters, new and old – your kindness provides the foundation for work at the Clock Tower Sanctuary. In a time of uncertainty for all, the continued generosity we see is incredible. It truly makes a difference to the lives of young people experiencing homelessness in Brighton & Hove. Thank you to everyone who has shown us kindness this year. Be it a message of support, donation or becoming a regular giver – we couldn’t do it without you.
We hope you have a brilliant World Kindness Day!