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Can You Help Home-Start IOW Support Island Families?

Home-Start IOW is calling on Islanders to support a campaign which is helping less fortunate people on the Isle of Wight.

January is typically when families really feel the pinch financially after Christmas, particularly those facing post-pandemic economic uncertainty and with rising energy bills.

The charity set a target of £2,500 to enable it to give 100 Island families a £25 voucher to “kick-start” 2023.

The charity has reached almost 75% of its fundraising goal - with just over £600 to raise before the end of the month.

An Island mum and dad - who want to remain anonymous - said:

"We are really struggling and every day I worry about how we can make ends meet. Everything is going up and there seems to be no let up.

"My son desperately needs some new shoes for school and I couldn’t see where I would get the money from as there is nothing spare, all our money goes on food and bills.

"The £25 voucher means that I can buy what I need for the kids without having to take that money out of our food budget. Thank you so much for doing this, it made me cry happy tears."

Alison Griffiths, Home-Start IOW Manager, said:

"We are experiencing a high number of referrals. January is always a busy time of the year for us - that’s because families come out of Christmas, money’s tight - especially in the current economic climate. We are seeing the impact finances are having, the impact on people’s mental health and we are struggling to meet the need.

"We know how much our families appreciate the vouchers, we’ve had parents tell us what a difference it makes. It’s not going to solve anyone’s financial problems but it really can give that little bit of breathing space that takes the pressure off when they are really struggling.

"You can give as little or as much as you want - any donation - however small, will help us reach our target."

You can support Home-Start IOW’s Kick-Start 2023 campaign by donating here.

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