The calendar features twelve illustrations from the charity’s three hubs in Manchester (Ancoats) and Salford (Eccles & Little Hulton), including scenes from its Community Shops, Food Clubs, training areas and creative clubs. For each month, a short testimonial is included from one of the charity’s clients, staff or trainees.
The calendars mark the beginning of Mustard Tree’s ‘Show Me Hope’ campaign, which calls for people to ‘turn away from fear and unfairness and embrace hope and kindness in 2026’.
Jack Barton, Mustard Tree Head of Communications and Impact says “The ‘Show Me Hope’ campaign is a reminder to our city that although things seem scary and divisive at the moment – there are great things happening at places like Mustard Tree which don’t always make the news. We wanted to create something fun, colourful and useful that celebrates our three Mustard Tree hubs, and all the fantastic people and activities which exist within them. The calendar has been made possible through the generosity of Len and Simon, who have both given their time and creativity for free. The calendar has been produced by Hobs Repro, who committed to printing the calendar at cost. we want to say a huge thank you to you all!”
Artist Len Grant says: “I’ve known about Mustard Tree great work for many years so was delighted to be invited to make drawings for the new calendar. I hope I’ve been able to shine a spotlight on the support they provide to so many and that lots of people get behind the project and have a Len Grant sketch on their wall all year round!”
Designer Simon Painter says: “What a pleasure it is to be able to give some time for a fantastic cause. I hold Manchester close to my heart and to just to be able to contribute in a small way to the great work the Mustard Tree do for the homeless across great Manchester is a honour. I really hope this calendar helps and brings people together throughout the year as it is intended!”
The Mustard Tree calendar will be officially launched at the charity’s Ancoats Community Café on Thursday 6th November (5pm – 7pm). Free tickets for the event – which will also showcase pieces of artwork from Mustard Tree’s drop-in creative classes – can be booked here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/mustard-tree-2026-charity-calendar-launch-tickets-1819979400379?aff=oddtdtcreator
The calendars will be on public sale in Mustard Tree’s Community Shops from Friday 7th November.