Transformation Cornwall has teamed up with The Diocese of Truro, The Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Methodist District and Cornwall Faith Forum to encourage residents to donate their energy rebate to Poverty Hurts, the Cornwall Community Foundation’s cost of living appeal.
Inspiration for the campaign came from Canon Alan Bashforth, whose congregation members at Truro Cathedral asked him how they could use their rebate to help local people facing hardship this winter. Households are set to receive a total of £400 of energy support, and the initial fundraising target is £10,000 – but there is no minimum donation amount for this campaign, which aims to inspire thousands of locals to share just part of their rebate and make a tangible difference in their own community.
Helping local people weather this ‘perfect storm’
Funds raised by the Poverty Hurts appeal will provide grants to grassroots charities and community organisations who are facing increased demand for their support due to the rising household costs faced by people across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. Cornwall has 17 council wards in the 20% most deprived in England. The cost-of-living crisis is creating a perfect storm for many people in Cornwall.
Bishop Hugh Nelson, Chair of Transformation Cornwall, said “This campaign is in the true spirit of ‘One and All’. For many people the support that’s coming for energy bills is desperately needed and won’t be enough. Others don’t need the help and will be able to donate their rebate. If we all pull together like this, we can make a real difference and make sure people get the support they need. Please give all you can!”
This campaign, which appeals to ordinary local householders, is part of the wider Crowdfunder ‘Donate the Rebate’ campaign, focused on encouraging second homeowners to give their rebates back to Cornish charities tackling poverty. Rob Love, Founder of Crowdfunder, says “‘Donate the Rebate’ is simply about moving money from A to B – to those who need it most. We’re thrilled to partner with Transformation Cornwall and hope that thousands of ordinary people from Scilly to the Tamar will get behind their campaign.”
For more information visit: www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/donate-the-rebate-cornwall-locals