Politicians’ £30,000 flood fundraiser being distributed
BACK in February, Pontypridd was one of the many towns in Wales that was battered by Storm Dennis, and a lot of money was raised to help it try and recover.
Many fundraisers were set up to help restore various parts of the town within days of the flooding happening.
But there was one fundraiser, in particular, that raised a staggering amount in a very short space of time.
More than £30,000 was collected by a fundraiser organised by Alex Davies-Jones MP and Mick Antoniw AM.
The astonishing amount was raised in just over a week, and it’s fair to say the original target of just £5,000 was well and truly smashed.
All the money was raised via a page launched online and a lot of generous people donated to help the town get back on its feet.
But, when the coronavirus outbreak started to take its toll on the UK, and Wales was put into lockdown, we didn’t find out what happened to the money raised.
When the fundraiser was closed to the public, Rhondda Cynon Taf Council became involved and discussions began as to how the money would be best, and fairly, distributed to those affected by the floods.
Between the council and local members of parliament and assembly members, a plan has now started to be put into action.
It’s been said the funding will be distributed in the “very near future”.
When asked about the money, a spokesperson for Rhondda Cynon Taf Council said: “The council has been working very closely with local members of parliament and assembly members to process this funding, which will shortly be available thanks to very kind donations made by the community following Storm Dennis.
“The process of identifying the properties affected, and putting in place arrangements to make these payments to residents, is almost complete - and as a result the funding will be distributed in the very near future.”
Mr Antoniw confirmed that the funds are now being handed out.
He said: “Immediately after the disastrous flooding earlier this year, Alex Davies-Jones and I launched a fundraising appeal.
“Because of your generosity more than £35,000 was raised for those families affected in the Pontypridd constituency.
“For many, their lives were turned upside down by the flooding.
“In some cases, families lost everything.
“But, despite that, our communities came together to support one another through the crisis, just as we are doing now with Covid-19.
“I am delighted to confirm that the proceeds are now on their way to every one of the 322 families affected in our area.
“Each family will receive an equal share of the fund amounting to just over £108. Alex and I are continuing to work with others including Welsh and local government to explore any opportunities to secure additional support and to resolve any outstanding flood-related issues.
“Thank you again to everyone who helped make this possible by supporting our fundraising appeal. With your donation and your goodwill, you have helped get many families back on their feet.
“Thank you again from both Alex and I.”