Generous support from members of the public and our current donors has meant we have raised over £250,000 to offer emergency support to vulnerable clients. Thanks to the Covid-19 Emergency Appeal we have been able to people across England and Wales who would have otherwise faced severe hardship under the lockdown.

The money raised has gone towards a wide range of practical needs including food parcels and vouchers for isolated individuals in poverty, IT equipment so clients can stay in contact and continue education and training and resources such as books and stationary for children so they can do their schoolwork at home.

Already facing severe disadvantages before the pandemic struck, the support has meant we have been able to help them stay resilient during the challenges.

We have supported many vulnerable young people during the lockdown who were at risk of county lines grooming and other negative influences.  With your help, we have been able to provide them with IT equipment so they can stay focused on their schoolwork.  Caseworker Des explains how your support impacted one of his clients here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Bax7k83Ujk&t=3s

Unemployment has been a big issue as former clients who found employment through our services are now facing redundancy. Some of teams saw their caseloads treble as former clients turned to us for help. Thanks to the fund we have been able to offer them practical help to overcome any barriers – one man was helped to buy a bicycle so he could cycle to and from his new job and avoid public transport. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eax6gSVxXdM

Accessing food has been a huge challenge for some of our more vulnerable clients and this has been compounded by their limited budgets and inability to leave their homes.  The Pantry is now delivering food to over 650 people across London.

“Very much appreciated, I am so thankful for the fruits and vegs for the young ones, every time I send the boys to the shop these things are gone.”

London client and her family

For clients outside of London, we have been able to support them with food vouchers which have sometimes prevented them from completely going hungry.

“A big thanks to you, St Giles and to the guys that prepared the parcel and delivery. The money saved will help with bills as they have increased from spending much more time at home. Sending you all rays of sunshine.”

Thank you letters from some of our youngest clients. 

We are still facing heavy demand on our services and need further support.  The economic fallout of the pandemic is likely to have a disproportionate effect on our clients – already among the most vulnerable and isolated in society – and we are working hard to minimise the impact on them. You can donate securely here.

A big thank you to everyone who has already donated.  Your support has been life-changing.