ALABARÉ urging supporters to help Give A Dog a Home this Christmas
We're highlighting a unique aspect of our work - accepting dogs into supported living accommodation - and the huge impact that it has on clients.
Leading homelessness charity, ALABARÉ understands that when a person is living on the streets, their dog isn’t just a pet. They’re a lifeline. A reason to keep going.
As the festive season edges closer, and the temperatures have been dropping, the South West-based charity is highlighting a unique aspect of their work and the huge impact that it has on clients.
The charity is one of the few organisations that welcomes dogs into supported living homes, alongside their owners.
This Winter, almost 300,000 households are facing the threat of homelessness, with record numbers in temporary accommodation, leading to demand for the charity’s services rising.
ALABARÉ is proud to offer more than just a roof for people experiencing homelessness.
Instead, they walk alongside individuals as they rebuild their life, offering dignity, hope, and the belief that change is possible.
Dogs at Christmas Event
On 3 December, ALABARÉ opened its doors to the public and their dogs. Supported by Dogs Trust and pet business, Supapet, ALABARÉ clients shared how much it means to them to have their pets alongside them.
ALABARÉ partners with fellow charities such as Dogs Trust to ensure dogs within services are well cared for and safe in supported living properties.
The Alabaré Place site in Salisbury has just had its ‘dog friendly’ status renewed by Dogs Trust, with the charity also offering support to residents needing veterinary care or medication for their pets.
Leah and Lola
Leah is staying in ALABARÉ accommodation, with her dog Lola:
“She’s been such a great help for me. She has helped me get out of my depression. It’s literally the best thing ever.
“If I didn’t have ALABARÉ to come to, and if they weren’t able to take her in, I think I’d be in severe depression right now. It would just break me, as I’d have lost Lola. It would have sent me into a downward spiral. She’s my world, and she’s like a child to me. I think what ALABARÉ does is amazing, it helps especially with mental health.”
Meet Warren and George
Warren has been using ALABARÉ’s services for around three months and has his dog, George, with him.
He said: “George is my life, I wouldn’t be me without him. Where I go, my dog goes. I’ve had him since he was about five weeks old.
“He’s my comfort blanket; he’s also my heartbeat. If it wasn’t for him, sadly enough, I don’t think I’d be here. I love the fact that I’ve got somebody that depends on me and that gives me the incentive to get up in the morning. He can’t take himself for a walk!
“I’m overly happy that ALABARÉ takes dogs. If more places did that, it would be awesome. He might only be a dog to some people, but he’s my son.”
Naomi Webb, Head of Service for Homelessness at ALABARÉ said:
“We have seen firsthand the difference it can make to clients if they’re able to keep their dog beside them while accessing ALABARÉ’s supporting living care. It gives residents a real sense of purpose, and helps them become more engaged in services.
“In turn, that boosts their mental health and hugely supports their journey towards independent living and brighter futures. We’d love to support more people and their pets by providing homes, restoring hearts, and empowering minds.”
How you can help
ALABARÉ is aiming to raise £10,000 this Christmas as it continues to break the cycle of homelessness for both people and their dogs.
Donations will ensure the dogs have food, a warm bed and essentials, as well as supporting ALABARÉ open more dog-friendly spaces to meet increasing demand.
A dedicated JustGiving page has been set up to support the campaign – click the button below to donate.
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