London, 2nd December 2024 – During this cold winter period, thousands of vulnerable residents across East London face the daunting reality of the ongoing cost-of-living crisis. For many, day-to-day survival is marked by the constant anxiety of trying to stay warm, nourished, and connected. In response, the East End Community Foundation (EECF) launched its annual appeal, this year aiming to raise over £50,000 to provide essential care packages to no fewer than 1,000 vulnerable elders.
Having been delivered for more than a decade, the Appeal is popular with businesses offering both financial support and staff time to pack and distribute the packages. This year, 8 City and Canary Wharf based businesses are donating to the appeal. With 16 volunteer slots available throughout December, we expect to benefit from more than 120 volunteers. Initially set to deliver 1,000 care packages, the Appeal has already surpassed expectations, raising over £67,000 thanks to the generous support businesses and their staff. This funding is enabling EECF to reach even more vulnerable older people, supplying vital winter essentials that bring warmth, comfort, and a renewed sense of community.
“With the incredible support of our corporate and community volunteers, and the generous contributions from our corporate partners, we are ready to distribute over 1,000 Winter Care Packages across Tower Hamlets, Hackney, Newham, and the City of London,” said Tracey Walsh, Chief Executive of East End Community Foundation. “For over a decade, the Winter Appeal has supported isolated and vulnerable residents when they are most vulnerable. This winter, as the challenges grow and the added loss of the Winter Fuel Allowance for many, we know these packages will bring much-needed relief and a smile to those who need it most.”
The need for support is stark. Nationally 14% of older people live below the poverty line but in the East End we have the highest levels in the UK with Tower Hamlets at 44%, Hackney at 41%, and in Newham it stands at 37%. Additionally, over 13,000 older people in the East End are estimated to be missing out on Pension Credit, which could make a critical difference during these challenging times. EECF is working to address this too.
EECF’s Winter Appeal encourages everyone in East London to get involved, whether through donations, volunteering, or simply spreading the word. From large corporations to small businesses and individual residents, the collective efforts of our community is making a meaningful difference to those most affected by hardship.
Find out more about our Winter Appeal click here.
Donate to our Life Chances campaign today click here.
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