Emmaus Salford is calling on the community and local businesses to join its Christmas Kindness Appeal and help people who are struggling this holiday season.
Our homelessness charity striving to bring holiday cheer to local families who rely on Lucie’s Pantry, our social supermarket for food and other household essentials on Fitzwarren Street in Salford.
Vouchers will also be given to people with experience of homelessness, who have a home, support, training and work opportunities at Emmaus Salford.
Data published by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) shows Salford has one of the highest unemployment rates in the UK and a high number of people claiming benefits compared to the UK average in 2023/4.
The ONS figures state that a staggering 30% of children live in poverty in Salford compared with a UK average of 19% – a figure has been rising year-on-year since 2020/1.
As people struggle to cope with rising costs, Emmaus Salford is appealing to local businesses to give £10, or a multiple of ten, to help the charity raise a total of £4,000. Reaching this target would mean every family visiting the pantry and every person supported by Emmaus Salford would receive a voucher in time for Christmas.
Jackie Smith, the Chief Executive of Emmaus Salford, said: “We see the relief vouchers bring for families who are feeling the strain at Christmas time. By donating to the Christmas Kindness Appeal, you will be helping families afford food, buy that winter coat or give a little extra to children in the household.
“Emmaus Salford is calling on local businesses to help ease the burden on families during the holiday period and give a little something to people with experience of homelessness at the charity.”
Businesses and individuals can donate securely online via Emmaus Salford’s website at https://emmaus.org.uk/salford/christmas-kindness-vouchers/
In addition to monetary contributions, Emmaus Salford organisations, companies and individuals can get involved in other ways, such as by volunteering, donating goods, or organising fundraising events to support the appeal.
On behalf of the community, thank you.