An Aberdeen charity is appeal for donations more than ever next week – as any cash given will be doubled.
Aberdeen Cyrenians is again doing the Big Give Christmas Challenge, a scheme which last year helped them raise £12,335 in just one week.
The initiative is the UK’s biggest match funding campaign. From November 29, supporters make their donation as usual and then it it is matched by funds from a pot, contributed to from various organisations, like The Reed Foundation.
Chris Bennett-Taylor, chief executive of Aberdeen Cyrenians, said the scheme helps the team support even more people struggling with homelessness and addiction.
He said: “We are delighted to once again be taking part in The Big Give Christmas challenge this year.
“Thanks to all the support we received from the community last year we managed to raise an incredible £12,335, including our match funding and Gift Aid. Because of this generosity we have been able to continue providing practical and mental wellbeing support, specialist housing and wrap around support for those affected by domestic abuse, LGBTQ+ discrimination, criminal justice, alcohol and drug addiction, and mental health challenges.”
‘Exponential increase in demand’
Mr Bennett-Taylor added that the cost-of-living crisis is stretching resources even further, making donations all the more vital.
“The challenges of the cost-of-living crisis is affecting so many people in Aberdeen,” he said. “We are seeing an exponential increase in demand for our services, with many people approaching us for the first time. Anyone and everyone can be affected by crisis.
“The festive period is a time for celebration and joy, but for many the threat of crisis is very real. The Big Give Christmas Challenge is a chance for people to see their donation make twice the impact.”
A spokesman from The Reed Foundation, Aberdeen Cyrenians’ Big Give champion, said: “Aberdeen Cyrenians does incredible work supporting people faced by crisis, which is why we have chosen to champion them this year.
“We believe in the importance of giving back to the communities we work with and encourage everyone to donate, no matter how big or small. Your donation will make real impact by being doubled this Christmas.
The Big Give Christmas Challenge runs from noon on November 29 to December 6. Donate here.
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