Parishes across the Archdiocese of St Andrews & Edinburgh are being invited to support people experiencing homelessness and hardship through this year’s World Day of the Poor collection.
The annual collection takes place on Sunday 15 November and will support the Care Van, a service run jointly by Bethany Christian Trust and Edinburgh City Mission.
Operating on the streets of Edinburgh since 1990, the Care Van provides food, hot drinks, clothing, blankets and practical assistance to people experiencing homelessness and hardship.
Archbishop Leo Cushley said: “The World Day of the Poor reminds us that we have a duty of care for those who are struggling, particularly people who are homeless or facing hardship.
“The Care Van provides not only food and practical help, but also friendship and human contact, which can make a real difference to someone’s life.
“I encourage parishioners to support this year’s collection as generously as they can, and to remember in their prayers those who rely on services like the Care Van.”
Practical Support
The service operates every evening and on five lunchtimes each week, visiting locations across the city centre including Waverley Bridge, the Grassmarket and the Royal Mile.
Supported by volunteers from churches across Edinburgh and the Lothians, the Care Van helps up to 60 people a night. In 2024, it served more than 13,000 meals.
As well as meeting immediate needs, volunteers offer friendship, encouragement and a listening ear, helping people who may be experiencing loneliness and isolation.
The World Day of the Poor was established by Pope Francis in 2017 to encourage Catholics to put their faith into action through practical support for those in need.
Last year’s Archdiocesan collection raised £31,500 for St Catharine’s Mercy Centre in Lauriston, Edinburgh, run by the Sisters of Mercy.
Parishes are invited to hold an optional special collection at Mass on Sunday 15 November, with all proceeds going towards the Care Van’s work.
Parishioners whose parish is not holding a collection can still support the appeal by donating online at bit.ly/dayforpoor. Find out more about the Care Van at Edinburgh City Mission.
