A record breaking £776,143 has been raised to help people in need.
An incredible achievement, the sum was raised in just 27 days, which is half the length of the annual Christmas appeal.
The money goes to support two charities, both of which help those really struggling due to the coronavirus.
The first charity is Family Action, a charity that supports disadvantaged families and adults in isolation. The money has allowed it to provide groceries and toiletries to 1,500 families a week.
The other charity is The Big Issue Foundation, which helps the homeless vendors who would usually sell the weekly magazine on the street. The much-needed funds have supplied them with kitchen items, mattresses, toasters, kettles, radios or fridges.
David Holmes, chief executive of Family Action commented: “I have been overwhelmed by the generosity of The Times’ readers. The incredible amount of money raised is helping Family Action to support thousands of vulnerable families across the country during these difficult times.
“The money is also helping us to innovate quickly so we can adapt our service provision very rapidly to meet emerging and changing needs.”
Stephen Robertson, chief executive of The Big Issue Foundation added: “We are completely bowled over by the sheer generosity of The Times’ readers. The amount, raised in such a short amount of time, is truly overwhelming.
“The response to the appeal has been fantastic and we cannot thank readers enough. The money raised is already making a real difference to the lives of our vendors, who have been hit hard in the wake of the coronavirus crisis.”
On The Times’ website, they list how all the donations can help.
Family Action
Supporting families in poverty, disadvantage and social isolation
- £50 will buy a month’s nappies, wipes and baby clothes
- £100 will supply five children with books, activities and crafts
- £200 will provide a family with daily hot meals for a month
The Big Issue Foundation
Working to end poverty and exclusion for The Big Issue sellers
- £50 will buy a voucher for food, toiletries and necessities
- £100 will cover a vendor’s gas and electricity bills
- £200 will buy pots, pans, linen, a microwave, kettle and radio
You can donate here.
Source: The Times
