A CHARITY that helps Reading people with housing and homelessness is preparing to sing of the season at its annual carols by candlelight event.
This year, it will take place in Reading Town Hall on Wednesday, December 14.
As ever, the charity’s patrons, Matt Allwright and Danyl Johnson, will host the evening.
There will be performances from the Reading Community Gospel Choir and Bulmershe School choir, readings by special guests, a raffle, and inspiring stories about Launchpad’s work with people in housing crisis – all by candlelight.
The charity, which is based in Merchants Place, says all ticket sales will assist their work in providing housing from some of the most vulnerable residents in the borough this winter.
Its supported housing offers warm, clean and safe accommodation for up to 104 people – a lifeline to the many individuals, couples and families due to be made homeless by the rise in the cost of living.
Vicki Lewis, Launchpad’s fundraising manager, said: “We are often told that Carols by Candlelight is a real highlight of the festive season, so we are incredibly excited to be able to bring this event back indoors after we were forced to cancel it two years running during covid.
“This year is going to be a truly special event at a brand-new venue for Launchpad.
“The Concert Hall at Reading Town Hall will look simply beautiful bathed in twinkly lights and will be the perfect setting for some stunning sing-along performances by Reading Community Gospel Choir and Bulmershe School Choir.”
She added: “On the night, we’ll also hear about our client’s experience of homelessness at Christmas and how Launchpad provided them with supported housing to help turn their life around.
“This year we are fundraising to support the many local people who will be left without a place to call home this winter and by coming along to Carols by Candlelight, Launchpad can continue providing warm, clean and safe accommodation for Reading’s most vulnerable people.”
Tickets cost £10 per person, with under threes getting in free. There is unreserved seating but accessible seating can be requested at the point of booking.
For more information log on to: launchpadreading.org.uk/carols
The charity is also requesting donations from people unable to attend. To do this, log on to: launchpadreading.org.uk/donate
