Help the most vulnerable in Essex this Winter
30th September 2024
- One in four people could be forced to turn off their heating and hot water when energy bill increases come in this autumn
- One in seven people in the UK face hunger due to lack of money, equating to 9.3 million people nationwide.
Food for thought
People in need in Thurrock have access to vital support thanks to a local charity called Necessities UK. Set up in 2021 and based in Grays, the group not only provides food parcels, but also much needed personal hygiene items. This additional support is almost as important as the food, and contributes to giving people back their pride and of hope.
Everyone is welcome at Necessities and this aligns with their mission, to break the cycle of poverty while leaving no one behind. They are also challenging the institutional policies that are at the root of escalating poverty, to inspire real change and equality in their community.
We were pleased to support them from our Surviving Winter Appeal and the funds helped to cover running costs, allowing Necessities to keep working hard and help more people in need of support.
Sarah Wilson, managing director and founder of Necessities UK said, “The number of people requesting help from foodbanks has been steadily increasing over the past ten years. In 2022 we helped 387 people and in 2023 we gave away nearly six tonnes of food and hygiene products to families and individuals in need.
“We have become known locally as an emergency relief service and thanks to the grant we received from ECF we have been able to expand our reach in Thurrock and have become even more visible to those who need additional help.”
Support our Surviving Winter Appeal
Our ‘Surviving Winter Appeal’ is one way of supporting vulnerable people in local communities and since the annual Appeal was first launched in 2011, we have given nearly £130,000 of support to local charities and voluntary groups.
The Appeal invites donations to raise vital funds that can be used to support older and vulnerable people, keeping them healthy and well during the colder months.
Zoe Brampton, grants manager at ECF, said: “The Winter can be a difficult time for people who are already struggling financially, but also for those who are elderly or vulnerable due to issues including homelessness, disability or illness.
Local charities and voluntary groups can provide a lifeline of support, but the rising cost-of-living, increased food prices and energy bills is making it difficult for them to continue providing their vital services.
“But, you can help! All donations to our Surviving Winter Appeal will enable us to support local voluntary organisations and activities to help reduce loneliness and isolation, contribute to fuel and food costs, and assist those in need to get access to specialist services and community groups.
“If you receive the Winter Fuel Allowance or the Energy Rebate and don’t need it to pay your own bills, please consider donating some or all of this to our Appeal.”
How you can help
- Donate your winter fuel payment if you don’t need it
- Give a one-off donation
- Set up a regular monthly gift
- Give online here
Cheques can be sent to the Essex Community Foundation offices: 3 Hoffmanns Way, Chelmsford, CM1 1GU. To ask questions about the Appeal and other ways to make a donation, please call us on 01245 355947.
Does your charity need funding this Winter?
If you are a local charity or community group that needs funding to support your work during the colder months, including core costs (such as rent and salaries), please call our grants team on 01245 355947.