Businesses urged to support Poverty Hurts Appeal

More than one-third of children in the North East now live below the poverty line, while foodbanks report a 50 per cent increase in adults asking for food that doesn’t have to be heated, as more people make the distressing choice between staying warm or going hungry.

County Durham Community Foundation has officially launched its 2022 Poverty Hurts appeal and donations from the county’s businesses will unlock match funding to bring about long-term solutions, as well as providing immediate support to those most affected by the cost-of-living crisis.

The £1m raised through Poverty Hurts will fund vital lifelines for almost 32,000 local children and young people being hurt by poverty in all its forms, and every £1 will be matched with a further 50p from the foundation.

Community Foundation CEO, Michelle Cooper, said: “We help all our Poverty Hurts supporters maximise their giving, to make a real and lasting difference to individuals, families and causes in the area.

“Last year, one £1,000 grant alone helped 186 people, including 81 children, so every penny will make a huge difference to people facing crisis and hardship because we’ll match it with 50p to create a future legacy of ongoing support across County Durham.”

It is hoped the £1m target will be reached by March 2023, when all proceeds from the final performance by world-famous musical theatre group Collabro, which is set to take place at Durham Cathedral, will be used to support the fund.

Every donation, from £10 to £10k can change a life, by backing community projects that can help people through the cost-of-living crisis with dignity.

£1,000 could

• Provide trusted advice, food and uniform support, access to IT and period products for families unable to make ends meet
• Boost foodbank supplies when public donations dwindle
• Fund hot meals for people at risk of severe hardship and poor health
• Provide essential care for families facing poverty after fleeing domestic violence
• Heat lunch club venues that keep older people well fed, connected and warm

In Return

• Individuals and businesses that support the Appeal will receive:
• Match funding of 50p on the £1 (Ts and Cs Apply)
• Thanks on social media and online
• PR opportunities and event invites
• Supporter newsletter and logo
• A summary of how you or your company can benefit by giving from a tax perspective

To buy a ticket for the concert, go to: durhamcathedral.ticketsolve.com.

To make a donation to the Poverty Hurts Appeal, visit: https://cdcf.enthuse.com/cf/poverty-matters

To find out more about the work of County Durham Community Foundation in fighting poverty and enriching local lives, go to: cdcf.org.uk.