Christmas is coming around fast, and this year we're asking you to be a Secret Santa - not for a colleague or friend, but for someone working hard to rebuild their life after experiencing homelessness.

Our residents have been working incredibly hard all year round. Some have just moved in to a René House home after experiencing street homelessness or sofa-surfing. Others have been with us for a few months, steadily building towards independence. But each and every one of them are making real progress in their own way.

But when Christmas comes around, it can feel a little isolating when festive treats and small luxuries simply aren't in the budget. When you're so focused on getting back on your feet, Christmas extras often take a bit of a back seat.
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The René House Secret Santa Scheme

This year, we're running our Secret Santa Amazon Wishlist scheme again.

The concept is simple: browse our Amazon wishlist, pick an item, and send a bit of Christmas joy directly to someone on their journey out of homelessness.

All the items purchased are sent directly to the René House HQ, where our helper elves (our Support Workers and admin team) wrap and deliver them to the right house, for the right residents.

What's on the Wishlist?

Our team have carefully selected items that will genuinely make a difference this Christmas:

Winter Essentials

• Hat, scarf, and gloves sets to keep warm through the cold months
• Hot water bottles with cosy covers
• Self-care gift sets - small luxuries that help people feel valued

Men's Grooming

• Body wash and deodorant sets
• Complete grooming kits with wash bags
• Winter warmers and practical essentials

Women's Self-Care

• Pampering gift sets with shower cream, body lotion, and moisturizers
• Spa beauty kits with sleep masks and hairbrushes
• Winter comfort sets with fluffy socks

For the Children in Our Care

• LEGO sets for Christmas morning excitement
• Bluey jigsaws for family fun
• Christmas activity books and colouring sets
• Educational toys like LCD drawing tablets
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Prices range from £3.58 to £17.99, so there's something for every budget.

Why It Matters

Christmas can be particularly tough for people transitioning out of homelessness.

While getting housed is a massive achievement and step forward, the journey doesn't end there. Our residents are working on life skills, building confidence, finding employment, and reconnecting with family - all while adjusting to independent living.

The small joys of Christmas, like opening a thoughtful gift, having something new, feeling thought of - can make a real difference during this challenging time.

Your Secret Santa gift shows someone that strangers care about their journey and want them to experience the warmth of Christmas.
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The René House Approach

At René House, we provide more than just accommodation. We offer tailored support that helps people develop the skills and confidence needed for long-term independent living. Our residents work with dedicated support workers, participate in life skills workshops, and join social activities that combat isolation.

Christmas is part of this bigger picture. When residents feel valued and included in festive celebrations, it reinforces that they're part of a community that cares about their well-being and success.

How to Participate

Becoming a Secret Santa couldn't be easier:

1. Visit our Amazon Wishlist
2. Browse the items and pick something that speaks to you
3. Purchase through Amazon - it will ship directly to us
4. Know you've made a difference - your gift will brighten someone's Christmas

Every single item makes a genuine impact, whether it's a £3.58 colouring book that keeps a little one entertained or a £17.99 gaming headset that brings joy to a young person
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Black Friday Bonus

Planning to participate? Black Friday (November 29th) might be the perfect time, with many wishlist items at discounted prices. You can be someone's Secret Santa while taking advantage of the deals.



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René House is a Community Interest Company providing supported accommodation for adults transitioning out of homelessness across Nottinghamshire. For more information, visit www.renehousecic.com

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