A sustainable way to make a difference for people facing homelessness this winter

A Good Thing is an online platform that allows businesses to give things away to their local charities. Less to landfill, more to a good cause! The case study below is an example of one charity's use of our 'charity need' function, which enables users to let local organisations know exactly what their charity is looking for.

As we approach the colder months, the challenges faced by people experiencing homelessness become even more urgent. Last year in the UK, around 4,667 people were estimated to be sleeping rough on a single autumn night, with around 1,318 in London alone.

Numbers are increasing exponentially as we go into winter, and many charities across the UK, like HARP and Depaul UK, are working hard to provide safety and security to those impacted – especially to vulnerable populations like young people, who are likely to be more affected.

Making a difference doesn’t have to be complicated, and donating through A Good Thing is a simple and sustainable way to support these charities in making a difference to those sleeping rough this winter. Here are some of the charities you can help, and how.

Getting young people off the streets

Roundabout provides tailored support for young people facing or at risk of homelessness in South Yorkshire. From providing temporary accommodation to offering counselling, education and employment support, the charity works tirelessly to help young people rebuild their lives.

What they need and why: mobile phones in working condition, to help homeless young people feel safe and independent by staying connected, and accessing services, education and employment.

Depaul UK helps young people experiencing homelessness find safety, stability and a fresh start. It works to prevent homelessness by offering shelter in a crisis, helping families rebuild relationships, and teaching children where to turn for support. For those already without a home, the charity provides practical advice, accommodation, and programmes that build confidence, life skills and a path towards independence.

What they need and why: two laptops or notebooks. Clients need laptops to take part in online courses and attend confidential video appointments. The charity operates in a shared office, and two laptops would give clients the flexibility and privacy they need.

Tackling homelessness at the root

Homeless Action Resource Project - HARP supports people in Southend who are homeless or at risk, offering everything from emergency accommodation to long-term housing and tailored guidance. Its Prevention Hub tackles the root causes of homelessness, while its Outreach Team provides year-round support on the streets – helping people find stability, rebuild their lives and move towards independence.

What they need and why: fittings like display units, hangers and office chairs to help run the charity’s shops, as well as sellable items such as instruments, memorabilia, clothes, small furniture, and homeware.
What they need and why: good-quality commercial kitchen equipment – such as ovens, sinks, prep units, fryers and mixers – to create a space where people can learn, bake, and cook. The charity is opening a new kitchen and café project, ‘HARP and Soul’, to help service users gain skills in hospitality. Any well-maintained items from businesses closing or upgrading would make a huge difference.

Supporting veterans find homes 

Help a Squaddie supports veterans and their families in Staffordshire and South Derbyshire who are facing homelessness or financial hardship. The charity’s four-bedroom Russell Aston Home for Veterans provides safe housing, alongside practical support and advice to help people get back on their feet. The charity also runs a veterans’ food bank and a monthly breakfast club, offering community, connection, and a helping hand to those who have served.

What they need and why: gym equipment – such as a weight rack, exercise bike, step machine, mats, or similar items – to expand its onsite gym. These additions will help residents improve their physical health, boost confidence, and support their overall wellbeing and recovery.