Warmth and Hope: Bolster Community Launches Urgent Winter Appeal
This winter is significant for a couple of reasons. October ’24 marked the beginning of our 20th anniversary year which should be call for celebration, however in complete contrast, alongside this anniversary, we’ve also just launched our first ever Winter Appeal to support local families and older adults facing hardship in the coming months. Rising costs and reductions in funding mean that, despite our best efforts, this year we have not been able to secure the necessary hardship funds to provide basic support for those in our community who need it most during the winter period.
“We Have No Other Choice”
Jacinta Linden, Bolster Community CEO, explains, “This year, the need is greater than ever, and there’s simply not enough funding to go around. Families in our community are struggling, through no fault of their own, to afford heating, food, and other essentials. We’re asking for your support to make sure no one has to face these challenges alone.”
Rising Need in Our Community
Bolster’s Family Support Team has seen a steep rise in hardship cases in recent years, especially among “in-work” families and others who would normally manage on their own. As Caroline Potter from the team shares, “The people we help are those who, due to sudden changes like illness or bereavement, find themselves in need of immediate support. This winter, we expect even more families and seniors to reach out for help – but without community donations, we’ll be unable to provide it.”
How You Can Help
Elaine McAteer, Comms & Marketing Manager, underscores the impact of every contribution: “Even the smallest donation goes directly to essentials like heating, electricity, food, and warm clothing for those in need. Last year, we provided £80,000 in direct support to over 260 households – and every pound spent provided critical support for 1,000+ people in our community.” Winter Appeal donations will be allocated through referrals from trusted partners like Social Workers, GPs, and Housing Associations, ensuring they reach those truly in need.
Join Our Community Effort
“We know many charities need support,” says Jacinta. “But for struggling families and older people right here in our community, Bolster Community is an essential lifeline. This winter, we’re committed to helping our neighbours not just get by, but survive with dignity and warmth. With your support, we can ensure that no one faces these harsh months alone or without the basics they need to endure, so if you can, please support our Winter Appeal.”
Donate today and quote “Bolster Winter Appeal” via:
- For Cheque/Cash Donations: contact Elaine McAteer on 028 3083 5764 or comms@bolstercommunity.org
Thank you for your kind support. Your generosity will make all the difference.