Actually Gay Men's Chorus rallies to support Brighton homelessness charity with urgent supplies drive
Actually Gay Men’s Chorus (AGMC) has reaffirmed its long‑standing commitment to LGBTQ+ solidarity and community care by mobilising members and supporters to aid Knight Support CIO, a frontline homelessness charity in Brighton. The chorus gathered at St Mary’s Church this week to donate urgently needed clothing, toiletries and other essentials that will help the charity continue its life‑saving outreach work during a period of relentless wet weather and rising demand.
Homelessness continues to affect LGBTQ+ people at disproportionately high rates, particularly those who face rejection from family networks or encounter discrimination when seeking support. AGMC, a community group built on the principles of visibility, chosen family and mutual care, said its involvement reflects a shared responsibility to ensure dignity and compassion for everyone experiencing hardship.
The charity has issued a priority appeal for small and medium men’s clothing, with stocks now critically low. Items most needed include warm waterproof coats, fleeces, hoodies, jumpers, T‑shirts, joggers and jeans, along with walking boots, trainers, socks, boxer shorts, hats, scarves, gloves, rucksacks and holdalls. Everyday essentials such as travel‑size toiletries, toothpaste, deodorant, pocket tissues, wet wipes and hand warmers are also in urgent demand. Knight Support CIO is additionally seeking tinned soups, vegetables, beans, instant meals such as pot noodles or porridge, and food for dogs and cats, including treats and biscuits.
Chosen family means showing up when it matters.
The charity has asked supporters not to donate women’s clothing, bridal wear, duvets or pillows, noting that limited storage space and increased disposal pressures mean these items cannot currently be processed. There is also a significant need for household goods to help people moving into short‑term or emergency accommodation. Items that would make the biggest difference include microwaves, saucepans in various sizes and basic cooking utensils such as spoons, spatulas, peelers and tin openers.
Nick Paget, Director at Actually CIC, praised the response from the LGBTQ+ community and allies. “Chosen family means showing up when it matters,” he said. “Supporting Knight Support CIO is about standing alongside people with compassion, dignity and real, practical help - especially in tough times.”
Supporters who cannot donate in person can contribute through the charity’s Amazon Wishlist, with deliveries directed to Paula Pattenden via the address selection option at checkout. Those wishing to drop items off can do so at several community collection points, including the Ladies Mile in Patcham, the Dorset Arms in East Grinstead, the Studio Barbers & Tattooists on George Street in Hove and Bang Tidy Cleaners on Guildford Road near Brighton Station. Additional private drop‑off locations in Albourne and Burgess Hill are available by prior arrangement by contacting the charity directly at info@knightsupport.org.uk.
Knight Support CIO continues to provide vital assistance to people sleeping rough or struggling to access stable accommodation across Brighton and the wider Sussex area.
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