At a Glance
- TV personality Pete Wicks visited HARP to film a festive episode of For Dogs’ Sake and deliver Christmas gifts for dogs.
- The visit was part of HARP’s partnership with Dogs Trust, helping people experiencing homelessness stay with and care for their pets.
- Dog owners shared how their pets provide stability, comfort and emotional support during times of homelessness.
- Viewers can support HARP’s Christmas campaign – including gifts for people using its services and their dogs – via the HARP website.
Television personality and animal welfare advocate Pete Wicks visited local homelessness charity HARP to deliver Christmas presents for dogs and film a special festive episode of For Dogs’ Sake, aired on 8 December on U&W.
The visit formed part of HARP’s partnership with Dogs Trust through the “Together Through Homelessness” programme, which supports people experiencing homelessness to keep their dogs safe, healthy, and with them wherever possible. During filming, Pete met several dog owners currently experiencing, or who have previously experienced, homelessness to discuss the role their pets have played in offering stability and emotional support.
Gifts supplied by Dogs Trust included warm coats, treats, toys, and other essential winter items designed to support the wellbeing of the dogs and to ease some of the challenges faced by their owners.
Pete Wicks, Ambassador for Dogs Trust, said:
“Dogs are family. For many people experiencing homelessness, their dog is their lifeline. It is so important we make sure these animals are looked after and that their owners know they’re not alone, at Christmas and all year round.”
HARP staff and volunteers welcomed the visit, highlighting the critical role pets can play in the mental and emotional wellbeing of people facing homelessness.
Vanessa Hemmings, CEO at HARP, said:
“It was a great experience having Pete, the crew from U&W, and our colleagues from Dogs Trust at HARP. Working together, we aim to keep dogs safe, warm, and cared for. These dogs are often a lifeline for people sleeping rough.”
The episode filmed at HARP aired on U&W (Channel 25) on 8 December and showcased some of the dogs currently living in HARP accommodation.
To support HARP’s Christmas campaign, including the provision of gifts for everyone using its services – dogs included – visit www.harpsouthend.org.uk/christmas.
For media enquiries, please contact:
Clare Wilson, Head of Communications & Volunteering
Clare.wilson@harpsouthend.org.uk / 07964 848949