Christmas can still go with a bang
All areas: Our Christmas Cracker appeal helps charities and groups across the community
Charities across the borough have been making plans for money raised by the Advertiser’s Christmas Cracker Appeal.
The usual Christmas celebrations for the 36 small local charities are mainly cancelled, since many of them involve a sit-down lunch – at a time when indoor gatherings are not allowed.
Though some charities have opted out of their usual gift of turkeys courtesy of Copas Farms, others are sticking with tradition, divvying up and distributing the turkey to members however they can.
As for the monetary donations, these will go towards helping the charity in other ways.
Windsor and Maidenhead
Starfish Swimming Club, which provides people with learning difficulties the opportunity to improve their swimming, may use the money to replace some old equipment that has deteriorated through lack of use this year.
“The funds usually go towards purchase of new swimming and training equipment, maybe buoyancy aides for novice swimmers or training equipment for our members who train to compete at regional or national swimming galas,” said Andrew McCabe of Starfish.
“Unfortunately we have not had too much pool time this year.”
Autism Berkshire has decided to make up Christmas gift bags for members, to be handed out in a socially distanced way.
The Cracker Appeal has also had the support of the Shanly Foundation – as for the past 17 years.
The foundation has donated a total of £41,000 since 2003, and this year has donated £2,000 to help local causes. These donations allow the Advertiser, which has been unable to run its sporty fundraising events this year, to support charities as usual.
“What’s good about the Cracker Appeal is it reaches right across the community, helping everyone from chil
dren to the elderly and vulnerable,” said Maria Mindak, awards officer at the Shanly Foundation.
“It allows us to reach all those groups we wouldn’t have the recourses to reach other
wise. With a small about of support they can help the community and that’s what the Cracker Appeal is all about.
“It’s needed this year more than ever.”