With the recent big freeze a reminder that winter is far from over, people are being urged to back a campaign to help the city’s most vulnerable residents.
Leeds Community Foundation (LCF) was swamped with applications for grants and emergency food boxes following its Surviving Winter appeal, backed by the Yorkshire Evening Post.
LCF chief executive Sally-Anne Greenfield said: “We had a wonderful response to our Surviving Winter campaign.
“However, there are still many people that desperately need our assistance in Leeds.
“Facing our recent extreme weather conditions is particularly difficult for this group of people and we would urge you to give whatever you can.”
She added: “It is crucial that we continue to provide support for the remainder of the winter.”
Caring Together, which supports around 300 pensioners in Little London and Woodhouse, received a cash boost of £500 from LCF along with 50 emergency food parcels.
And manager Cherril Cliff said the food packages – handed out during last week’s heavy snowfall – had proved a real lifeline.
Ms Cliff said: “They have been just fantastic.
“Older people, particularly if they’re really frail, are just stuck completely when it snows.
“It’s not just that you’re taking these boxes – it’s a chance to catch up with people, some of whom are very isolated.”
She added: “I feel we reached the most vulnerable.”
LCF had requests for grants and boxes totalling more than £175,000 – but only had £75,000, so it is calling on the public to help raise extra funds.
Just £20 will enable LCF to provide a food parcel.
Go to www.justgiving.com/winterwarmthleeds or send a cheque, made payable to Leeds Community Foundation, to 51a St Paul’s Street, Leeds LS1 2TE.
Comments