Northamptonshire Community Foundation launches Surviving Winter appeal to help vulnerable residents stay warm
Older and vulnerable residents across Northamptonshire need support to stay safe, warm and well this winter. Northamptonshire Community Foundation is asking people to donate to its Surviving Winter appeal to help residents across the county. Now in its 16th year, the appeal has raised over £285,000 to support Northamptonshire residents. As temperatures drop, donations will help continue this vital work.
The foundation’s appeal highlights the pressures facing older people locally: 9.8% of Northamptonshire households are living in fuel poverty, rising above 10% in Kettering, Wellingborough and Oundle. Meanwhile, 55.1% of pensioner households in the county consist of one older person living alone, underlining the importance of tackling social isolation alongside financial hardship.
Through the appeal, the foundation works with local charities and community organisations to provide practical, targeted support to vulnerable older people, helping them stay warm, safe and connected through the coldest months.
Previous grants show the difference donations can make. Age UK Northamptonshire received £5,000 to fit 100 smoke detectors in older residents’ homes and run electric blanket testing and replacement sessions for 40 residents. BAK UP CIC received £3,000 for its community spaces project, providing around 150 beneficiaries with a safe, warm place to meet each week for refreshments, games, arts and crafts.
Rachel McGrath, Chief Executive of Northamptonshire Community Foundation, said: “No older person in Northamptonshire should have to face winter feeling cold, worried or alone. Our Surviving Winter appeal brings local generosity together with the knowledge and care of our charity partners to offer practical support where it is needed. Please give what you can: your kindness can help an older neighbour stay warm, safe and connected this winter.”
Crispin Holborow DL, Vice President of Northamptonshire Community Foundation, said: “I am delighted to support the NCF Surviving Winter Appeal and help ensure vulnerable older people across Northamptonshire can stay warm, well and connected this winter. Together with our local charity partners we can make a real difference when it matters most.”
A spokesperson from Moulton Community CIO, which received a £3,000 grant from the fund, said: “We have greatly appreciated the support provided through this grant, which has enabled us to reach older and vulnerable residents who may otherwise have experienced isolation, poor wellbeing and difficulties accessing support during the winter months. The funding has allowed us to deliver a holistic programme that combines physical activity, social connection, nutritious food and practical assistance, making a meaningful difference to participants' lives.
“Thank you for investing in local community-led solutions that help older people remain active, independent and connected. The impact of this funding will continue after the grant period through the friendships, confidence and resilience that participants have developed.”
Every gift, whatever its size, can help bring warmth, comfort and reassurance to an older person who needs support. To make a one-off or regular donation, visit the Surviving Winter appeal page for details of how to give.