Burton and Uttoxeter MP Jacob Collier is calling on local businesses and residents to support the town’s YMCA as the team launches their autumn fundraising campaign.
With a target of £75,000, the programme has three core areas of focus – the food bank, the annual sleepout and Christmas.
Jacob Collier MP recently visited the main hub on James Street, Burton and commented: “I am really impressed with the services provided by the YMCA and would ask everyone, who is able, to contribute – whether that’s making food or cash donations, fundraising or volunteering. The YMCA team does an incredible job supporting people in a position of hardship – often through no fault of their own – and I would love to think that as a community of individuals and businesses, we can all help the YMCA reach their autumn target of £75,000.”
Food bank
The YMCA is currently issuing a record number of food parcels due to an increased demand from those experiencing food poverty. Compounding this problem, the charity is currently receiving fewer donations which means a reduction in the quantity of food in each parcel.
You can find out more here – including what food people can donate and how. www.burtonymca.org/emergency-food-service/
Sleepout 2024
The sixteenth Burton Sleepout takes place on Friday 25th October. The event is an opportunity for people to experience the discomfort, feelings and emotions associated with sleeping rough for one night only, in a safe and secure way – while raising vital funds and awareness.
Age is no barrier – with the youngest participant to date just two years old and the oldest being 90! Ticket sales are live from the 3rd September and can be found on our website here: www.burtonymca.org/sleepout
Christmas
While Christmas is the highlight of the year for many, for others, it is a time of pain and anguish.
Any time now, the shops will start to display Christmas merchandise and Burton & District YMCA CEO Paul Laffey is encouraging people to embrace the ‘season for giving’ and consider making a donation. “As a Christian charity, Christmas is a time when we are really keen to focus on our core values. Homelessness doesn’t discriminate and could happen to anyone at any time. We are appealing to those who can afford it, to support those struggling to pay their everyday living expenses, let alone Christmas treats.”
How to get involved:
Donate to the YMCA foodbank – Food donations can be dropped off at our town centre site, Reconnect or you can make a monetary donation here – www.burtonymca.org/donate
Sign up to Sleepout – www.burtonymca.org/sleepout/
Donate or sponsor the YMCA’s work this Christmas – www.burtonymca.org/donate/
Photo: Paul Laffey (YMCA Burton CEO), Jacob Collier MP, Debra Crooks (YMCA Burton Housing Manager), Julia Taylor (YMCA Burton Foodbank coordinator) and Paula Senior (YMCA Fundraising and Partnerships manager)
