Lighting Up Hope: SASH Launches Candlelight Carol Concert and Winter Appeal to Support Vulnerable Young People

York-based youth homelessness charity Safe and Sound Homes (SASH) has announced its first-ever Candlelight Carol Concert — a brand new festive event designed to bring the community together while raising vital funds for young people in need this winter.

The concert will take place at 7pm on Friday 5 December at Heslington Church, where guests can enjoy an atmospheric evening of candlelight, festive music and community spirit. Performances will include the enchanting Holly May Violin and the ever-popular Acomb Community Choir, with plenty of opportunities for the audience to join in.

Alongside the music, attendees can enjoy mince pies, mulled wine and a cosy Christmas atmosphere. Tickets are now available via the SASH website, priced £4.50 for children (under 16), £9.50 for adults or £25 for a family of four.

Linsey Trower, SASH’s Fundraising Manager, says the charity wanted to create something truly meaningful this festive season:
“The festive period can be a time of reflection for many people, and we wanted to create an event that would be special for people to enjoy together, whilst also supporting young vulnerable people this winter.”

The event forms part of the charity’s 2025 Winter Appeal, launched to highlight the realities faced by young people experiencing or at risk of homelessness. As temperatures drop, many 16 to 25-year-olds across York and North Yorkshire struggle to find somewhere safe to stay, often through no fault of their own.

One of those young people was Lilly, who faced unimaginable hardship when she lost both parents at 17 and soon after became homeless. Her story — shared as part of the Winter Appeal — illustrates both the challenges young people face and the lifesaving impact of community support. Thanks to SASH and its volunteer hosts, Lilly found safety, warmth and hope.

SASH is urging residents to donate or get involved to help change the lives of more young people like Lilly. The charity provides emergency accommodation through its Nightstop service, longer-term Supported Lodgings placements, and additional support for young people struggling with mental health, confidence and isolation.

More information about the Winter Appeal, Lilly’s story and ways to support can be found at www.sash-uk.org.uk/winterappeal. Tickets for the Candlelight Carol Concert can be booked at www.sash-uk.org.uk/event/charity-candlelight-concert-york/.