Cumbrian Landmarks Wrapped in Giant Scarves to Launch Winter Warmth Appeal
Cumbria Community Foundation’s 2024 Winter Warmth Appeal has been officially launched with a unique and eye-catching gesture. Three iconic Cumbrian landmarks – The Hoad in Ulverston, Whitehaven Lighthouse, and the rotunda at Tullie in Carlisle – have been draped in giant scarves as a reminder of the struggles that many older Cumbrians face during the winter months.
As the county braces for another cold season, the 33-metre scarf serves as a symbol of the potentially deadly consequences of not being able to afford adequate heating. The appeal, run by the charity Cumbria Community Foundation, aims to raise awareness and funds to ensure that no one in the community has to choose between heating their home and putting food on the table.
According to Jenny Benson, Director of Programmes and Partnerships at Cumbria Community Foundation, between 300 and 500 older people in Cumbria die each year due to problems related to heating costs. This year, with the added financial strain caused by rising energy prices and changes in government benefits, the number could be even higher. Benson emphasizes the importance of community support in ensuring the well-being of vulnerable older residents during the colder months.
Last year, the Winter Warmth Appeal distributed over £315,000 in grants to 1,941 older people through delivery partners Age UK and Copeland Age & Advice Service. One such recipient, 65-year-old Shirley McGuire from Carlisle, shared her gratitude for the support she received. She explains that without the help of the Winter Warmth Appeal, she would not be able to afford heating this winter as she prepares to retire.
Terrance Abba, a 72-year-old from Barrow-In-Furness, also received a grant from the appeal last year. He shares that the funding is crucial for him as he faces a choice between heating and food during the seven months of cold weather in Cumbria.
To donate to the Winter Warmth Appeal, individuals can visit the Cumbria Community Foundation website or make a phone donation between the hours of 9am-5pm. A match funding challenge will run from November 11th to December 13th, where donations will be doubled thanks to the generosity of match funding champions such as Electricity North West, WCF Ltd, and Cumberland and Westmorland and Furness Councils.
Karen Hunter, Customer Inclusion and Partnerships Manager at Electricity North West, expresses the company’s delight in supporting the Winter Warmth Appeal. She states that as a match funding champion, they will be doubling all donations made during the four-week period, up to a total of £20,000.
If you know someone aged 60 or over who may need support from the fund, visit the Cumbria Community Foundation website for more information. The Winter Warmth Appeal is a lifeline for many older Cumbrians, and every donation, no matter the size, can make a huge difference.
