Fundraising to help beat loneliness
A social-action group in Peasedown St John has launched a fundraising appeal to help combat loneliness among the elderly.
The village residents’ association, which was set up five years ago, wants to ensure older and vulnerable people have someone to talk to and opportunities to ‘get out and about’.
Association secretary, Nathan Hartley said: “We’ve set ourselves the ambitious target of raising £1,000 by December 1.
“Part of the project involves cooking a hot Christmas meal during December for lonely, older and vulnerable people in Peasedown St John.
“In order for this to happen though, we need to secure the funds within the next six weeks, either in financial donations or in goods.”
The group has hosted several social events and brought members of the community together.
They organised summer parties for families from disadvantaged backgrounds, have started work on a new dementia-friendly, sensory garden, set up a job-search weekly drop-in where people looking for employment can use the internet for free and raised money to support a new community library.
Last week, the residents’ association’s new fundraising team met to put together a plan of action to raise the necessary funds.
Joy Gosz, Karen Walker, Richard Clarke and Nathan Hartley have written to local businesses, applied for grants and appealed to organisations such as Curo to help them reach the target.
Cllr Karen Walker said: “If we can secure this funding, up to 100 people will be fed during December at a variety of events. Otherwise many could lose out due to having no family living nearby.
“Any donation will make a real difference to the lives of older and vulnerable people this winter time.
“Whether it’s a financial contribution or a donation of goods – we’d love to hear from you if you’d like to offer your support.”
The much-needed funds will cover the costs of food, a freezer, toaster, microwave and kitchen utensils.
It will also help buy saucepans, a printer and a stainless steel table.
For more information and to support the appeal email: psjresidentassoc@yahoo.co.uk.