1,400 rucksacks for the homeless this Christmas

More than 1,400 specialist rucksacks, designed to be "a symbol of dignity to rough sleepers", will be distributed to London's homeless population this festive season.

The rucksacks, named CITYPAK, include features such as a waterproof poncho and reflective safety elements.

Bags were handed out at St Martin-in-the-Fields, on the edge of Trafalgar Square, via The Connection, a London homeless charity that supports "hundreds of people sleeping rough every day".

Homelessness is on the rise in London, with more than 13,000 people seen sleeping rough by outreach workers in the 2024–2025 count – the highest number ever recorded by Combined Homelessness and Information Network.

Director Carrie Lombardi said: "It's just a backpack, so it doesn't solve the problem of homelessness.

"But what we've learned from passing them out is that it is a practical resource and an opportunity to connect with our unhoused neighbours and bring them into these amazing organisations around the city."

The Connection filled the bags distributed at Trafalgar Square with "all the essentials that we take for granted", including warm clothing.

Michael Bird, who continues to be supported by The Connection, said: "Back in 2022 I had a few issues like mental health and drinking and drugs, which I was using to self-medicate.

"Things fell apart where I was living, so I came to London and to go it was really scary.

"I didn't know what I was doing. I didn't have a sleeping bag."

Individuals with previous experience on the street directed him to organisations providing support, like The Connection, where he could get showers, food and accommodation.

He shared his own thoughts on why a good rucksack is helpful on the street.

"I remember when I first was out on the streets, I was carrying a bag for life, and it just wasn't sustainable because everything is out in the weather," Mr Bird said.

"Having a decent bag is always imperative. You can use it like a pillow and if it's raining you want a waterproof one. If your clothes get wet, especially in this weather, it can be bad for you."

CITYPAK, an American non-profit organisation, was launched in 2012 by music agent Ron Kaplan.

It has since distributed more than 120,000 rucksacks through over 400 partner organisations across 230-plus US cities.

It will also supply rucksacks to other London partners, including 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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