Help the most vulnerable in Essex this winter – Surviving Winter Appeal

21st December 2022

Click here to give now to our Appeal.

Recent grants have been awarded to warm hubs in Harwich and Chelmsford, and for volunteers in Tiptree to buy and distribute heated blankets for local people who are struggling financially.

We are responding to the escalating rise in the cost-of-living and are working closely with groups to best understand their needs. Our ‘Surviving Winter Appeal’ is one opportunity for local people to support vulnerable communities, which is needed now more than ever before.

The Appeal calls on local people to donate what they can to raise vital funds to help older and vulnerable people get through the colder months.

Andy Payne Worpole, head of programmes at ECF, said: “There will be many people in Essex forced to choose between heating and eating this winter, and this will be dangerous for those who are elderly or have health conditions – but you could help them.

“All donations to our Appeal will help provide grants to cover fuel and food costs, support activities to reduce loneliness and isolation, and help those in need to access specialist services and community groups.

“It may be that you receive the Winter Fuel Allowance or the Energy Rebate and don’t need it to pay your own bills, and you could consider donating this.

In previous years, funds from the Appeal have supported winter clothing packs for vulnerable people, lunch clubs that provide a warm and welcoming space for elderly people and homeless charities to provide extra beds during the colder months.

Andy added, “Our Surviving Winter Appeal is a direct way to help people in need in your local community to stay warm, safe and connected with others. Please give whatever you can to help us support as many people as possible.”

• Cheques can also be sent to the Essex Community Foundation offices: 3 Hoffmanns Way, Chelmsford, CM1 1GU. To ask any questions you may have about the Appeal and alternate ways to give to it, please call us on 01245 355947.
• Local charities and community groups in need of funding to support them during this difficult time, including towards core costs (such as rent and salaries) are encouraged to call our grants team on 01245 355947.