Christmas is a difficult time of year for many people - most notably those who are homeless.

2020 has been particularly challenging, with almost everyone in Ireland being affected by the Covid-19 pandemic in one way or another. Job losses, uncertainty, and illness - elements of the year that could only be made more unmanageable by losing your home. The festive season is a time for giving - and although many of us may be focusing on what we're going to get our friends and family for Christmas, we should also consider what we can do for those who need it most. While some people may not be in a position to donate a considerable amount of money to homeless charities, there are other ways of helping out and doing your bit this Christmas. 1. Donate a gift Donating a thoughtful or essential gift to a homeless charity is a great way to support Ireland's homeless population this Christmas. The Peter McVerry Trust has put together a useful guide for anyone hoping to do so this festive season. "The cost associated with moving accommodation on a regular basis is high and families can constantly be covering the costs of living in unsettled environments," says the charity. "To help families prepare for Christmas, toys are always welcome, including gifts for older children and teenagers, and particularly for older boys from the age of 10-16. Parents are always appreciative for this support as it eases the pressure on families at this time of year." The following gifts would also be welcome this festive season:

• Male and female underwear
• Towels (bath and hand towels)
• Makeup for women
• Sanitary products
• Rain jackets
• Cups and mugs
• Cutlery
• Chocolate and sweets
• Pyjamas for people going into hospital
• Slippers
• Dry, well-dated foods like crackers, crisps etc.
• Board games
• Decorations
• One4All vouchers

The charity asks that people refrain from giving items such as alcohol, razors/blades, hats, scarves or cooked food. https://www.instagram.com/p/B5m3l0AniC1/ 2. Organise a virtual fundraiser This year, Galway Simon Community are encouraging people to organise virtual fundraisers - not just for Christmas, but all year round. They, as well as many other charities around the country, are also seeking basic essentials donations, such as toiletries and warm clothes. You can find out more about how to get involved here.  3. Encourage your company to Sponsor a Star with Focus Ireland  One of the charity's longest running campaigns, Sponsor a Star allows Irish businesses to pledge a donation and help families and individuals move into homes of their own, while also offering crucial support to those struggling this Christmas. Stars start from €1,000 and go up all the way to €20,000, but companies can also choose how much they would like to pledge too. Sponsored stars will then appear on the Focus Ireland Christmas tree on Grafton Street. You can find out more about how to Sponsor a Star this Christmas here.  https://twitter.com/FocusIreland/status/1200545326635069440?s=20 4. Make a donation to your local charity    If you can spare it this Christmas, why not make a donation to your local homeless charity? Whether you're in Dublin, Cork, Galway, or somewhere else, your local services always benefit from the kindness and support of the public - especially after a year like 2020. You can find a list of homeless services here.  5. Contact your local TD  Although Ireland's homeless problem can be - and very much is - being helped by the public, it is paramount that the government stops ignoring this issue and addresses the thousands of people who remain with homes each month. Contacting your local TD asking what they are doing to tackle homelessness will put pressure on those not acting - and give you a good idea of where to send your vote next election.