Partnering with Comic Relief, and The Childhood Trust, the publications have been campaigning to support those most affected by the cost-of-living crisis by delivering vital funds to a range of community organisations and projects across the UK. Major donors, including Amazon, British Airways, Sainsbury’s, Ebay, Neptune Energy, TK Maxx, the TK Maxx and Homesense Foundation and the Westminster Foundation, have played a significant role in raising the funds which the charities have pledged for organisations across the country.
The money raised for Comic Relief will support organisations all over the country that are working hard to ease the pressure and help people through the toughest times of their lives. From providing warm winter clothes, electric blankets, energy top cards and food vouchers to also supporting people with their mental health, the appeal will help get urgent support to people who need it most, say the publishers.
This news comes as more celebrities including the Princess of Wales, Sir Andy Murray and Dame Emma Thompson joined Comic Relief co-founder Lenny Henry and BBC Radio 2 DJ Sara Cox in lending their support to the campaign. Sir Andy said “This winter will be incredibly challenging and difficult for so many. I have been proud to support Comic Relief over the years and know this appeal will reach those who need help most. It has never been more vital for us to come together and make a difference.”
Meanwhile Sara Cox visited Guiding Hands, in Battersea to see first-hand how donations to the appeal could help support families with urgent essentials, such as food packages, as well providing a place to visit for advice and support during these difficult times,
The campaign comes as inflation hits a 40-year high, with an estimated 4.3 million children living in poverty and an increasing number of people forced to choose between heating and eating. The campaign will get tangible relief to those who need it as quickly as possible:
- £10 could help feed a family of three for a week
- £20 could help buy a winter kit containing a blanket, hat, scarf, and gloves
- £75 could help provide a slow cooker, recipes, and cooking sessions for a family
- £100 could help provide an emergency shopping voucher for a family struggling with cost-of-living rises
Sara Cox, BBC Radio broadcaster, said: "Guiding Hands is such a crucial part of the community, supplying food, support and a place to chat. What they do is magnificent. I know times are tough at the moment, but if you are able to spare a few quid you might just help someone get through the week, get through the winter and get through Christmas.”
David Cohen, Campaigns Editor of The Independent and Evening Standard said: “It has been inspiring to see so much support from our readers, and from businesses and celebrities across the UK. As we hit this important milestone we thank all of those who have donated thus far, but continue to push to raise more vital funds this Christmas.”
People can donate to On The Breadline by visiting the Comic Relief campaign page. They can also show support by tweeting the hashtag #onthebreadline.
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