1,400 backpacks donated to the homeless this Christmas

Over 1,400 specially designed backpacks, intended to serve as a mark of dignity for people sleeping rough, will be distributed to the homeless across London during the festive period. Known as CITYPAK, each backpack features practical items such as a waterproof poncho and reflective safety details.

The backpacks were handed out at St Martin-in-the-Fields near Trafalgar Square by The Connection, a charity supporting hundreds of rough sleepers in London daily.

Homelessness in the city is reaching record levels, with outreach workers counting over 13,000 individuals sleeping rough in the 20242025 period, the highest figure recorded by the Combined Homelessness and Information Network.

Director Carrie Lombardi emphasized, A backpack doesnt solve homelessness, but it provides a practical resource and an opportunity to connect with people on the streets, guiding them to support services available across the city.

The backpacks were filled with essential items often taken for granted, including warm clothing and other necessities.

Michael Bird, who has been assisted by The Connection, shared his experience of rough sleeping in London in 2022. Back then I was struggling with mental health and substance use, and I didnt have a sleeping bag when I first arrived. It was frightening and difficult, he recalled.

Bird highlighted the importance of a sturdy backpack: I used a regular shopping bag, which couldnt withstand the weather. A good bag can serve as a pillow, keep your clothes dry, and is essential in bad weather.

CITYPAK, founded in 2012 by music agent Ron Kaplan in the United States, has distributed over 120,000 backpacks through more than 400 partner organizations in 230 cities across the US. The initiative has now expanded to London, supplying additional backpacks to partners such as CRISIS, The Salvation Army No. 10 Day Centre, Refettorio Felix at St Cuthbert's, Chelsea Methodist Church, Mary Smith's Pantry, and Pimlico Angels.

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• 1,400 rucksacks for the homeless this Christmas