A Bristol Live campaign to raise £25,000 for children at risk of hunger over the festive season has smashed its target a week before Christmas. A whopping £26,714 has been donated by generous businesses, residents and community groups across the city.
The money will go to Community of Purpose, which runs an initiative called Break Free, supporting disadvantaged young people in South Bristol. Donations, which range from £5 to £6,000, will be spent on providing food and fun for 1,000 children this winter including a Christmas lunch, care package and supplies to take home.
The campaign, which launched in October, was run in collaboration with our sister newspaper Bristol Post and business news website Business Live.
Break Free was set up by former Bristol City Football Club director Amy Kington and her brother Josh in 2016. The programme offers a safe place for disadvantaged Bristol children during the school holidays, including hot meals and trips that would otherwise be unaffordable for many. A total of 77 per cent of those who attend the scheme are eligible for free school meals.
“We’re overwhelmed by the generosity of Bristol’s residents and businesses,” said Amy. “This incredible response means more children will have magical memories to cherish. Although times are tough for many people, it shows what we can achieve when the city comes together. I’m particularly grateful to all our business supporters, several of whom are loyal Break Free backers, who have stepped up and supported this campaign. It will make a huge difference.”
Several businesses gave donations of more than £2,000 in recent weeks to support the campaign. Elmtree Garden Contractors and food wholesaler Arthur David each donated £6,000; Taranis Engineering donated £2,500; and Jeff Way Group and accountancy firm 55.Financial each donated £2,000.
A charity quiz night was also held at Bristol’s BAWA club earlier this month which raised around £5,000. The event was attended by a number of local businesses, including Bristol Water, Bristol Gig Club, Lancer Scott and Inside Travel Group. Raffle prizes included a boat trip on the Bristol Packet, a tasting experience at the Bristol Beer Factory and courtside seats at the Bristol Flyers.
Pete Gavan, editor of Bristol Live, said: “It’s fantastic for the target to be hit and a huge thank you to everyone who has contributed to make it possible. It’s a brilliant cause that will make a big difference to hundreds of young people’s lives.”
Hannah Baker, Bristol Live business editor who led the campaign, added: “It’s wonderful news. Thank you to all the businesses and generous individuals who have donated. Every child deserves to enjoy the magic of Christmas and thanks to your kindness, that will now be possible for many more young people this winter.”
The initiative’s success was today echoed by Jenny Smith, who relies on the programme for her sons Sean and Toby.
“Break Free is like a second family to us. It gives my boys experiences we couldn’t afford, and it’s a lifeline for so many parents,” Jenny said. “This money will help so many families like mine, and I can’t thank everyone enough for their kindness.”