With temperatures this winter dipping to almost -7C in some parts of Cumbria, the fundraising efforts of a local couple have meant that more vulnerable older people will be warm this winter.
Judith Egan, with the support of the community of Mungrisdale, has raised £1,957 for Cumbria Community Foundation’s Winter Warmth Appeal, thanks to some festive fundraising.
From winter fuel allowance donations to the purchasing of Christmas cakes, mince pies, mincemeat, and attending wreath making classes, this is the fourth year Judith has supported the initiative.
The Winter Warmth Appeal was set up by Cumbria Community Foundation in 2010 to make sure that vulnerable older people who may have to choose between heating and eating, can stay warm and well through the cold weather.
Judith said: “The first year I organised a coffee morning and last year I introduced wreath making classes.
“Unfortunately, due to the COVID-19 pandemic there were no coffee mornings this time around.
“Instead, I emailed people who had supported us in the past, announcing that I would still love to receive donations from their winter fuel allowance, and I would also be making mince pies, mincemeat, Christmas cakes and wreaths which they could order.
“I also held four wreath making classes.
“These were only for three people at a time so we could be safe and social distance.
“These were really enjoyable days where the ladies loved being out making something and having a good chat, after the November lockdown.
“They were provided with all the materials for the wreath making and a light lunch, and refreshments.
“I feel our Winter Warmth fundraising just gets better, the support from the local community is just wonderful.
“This is a nationwide problem, but Cumbria Community Foundation has excelled at promoting the Winter Warmth Appeal in our county.”
In partnership with Age UK and Copeland Age and Advice Service, Cumbria Community Foundation has been able to award more than £200,000 to hundreds of older people helping to keep them warm, safe and well while easing financial pressure during the cold season.
Annalee Holliday, grants and donor services officer at Cumbria Community Foundation, said: “It’s more important than ever that the Winter Warmth Appeal receives widespread support, and we are very thankful for Judith’s support again this year.
“The coronavirus outbreak means that, for many older and vulnerable people, this winter has been even more difficult.
“Many need to stay at home to keep themselves safe and find themselves cut off from family and friends, facing higher costs to heat their homes.”
To support the Winter Warmth Appeal and organise your own fundraiser, visit: www.virginmoneygiving.com/fund/winter-warmth-2020.
Alternatively, you can call 01900 825760 Monday to Friday between 9am and 5pm or send a cheque payable to ‘Cumbria Community Foundation’ (write Winter Warmth on the back) and post to Cumbria Community Foundation, Dovenby Hall, Dovenby, Cockermouth, Cumbria, CA13 0PN.
