To support local families coping with the effects of Coronavirus

A small act of kindness that can make a huge difference to families in South Yorkshire

Monday 23^rd March 2020

In response to the impact of COVID-19 (Coronavirus) on local communities, Hallam FM Cash for Kids is today launching an urgent new appeal to help those families in South Yorkshire who need it most.

Alongside The Star’s #therewithyou campaign helping to bring our communities together, this appeal is relying on donations from listeners and locals. The Cash for Kids Appeal will build a fund from which grants will help families help cope, such as covering basic essentials including food & heating.

The appeal is aimed at the most vulnerable within our community who may be feeling the direct impact of the current situation most keenly. These includes families on zero hours contracts who may be facing reduced or completely cut-back hours, or no access to sick pay.

Hallam FM Cash for Kids understand the impact that the closure of schools to the majority of children will have on underprivileged families. Grants from the appeal will also be made available to those that children who receive free school meals, over and above the Government’s voucher scheme.

Speaking about the new appeal, Hallam FM host John Harrison from Big John @ Breakfast, said: “We have already been hearing incredible stories of generosity from our listeners, as individuals go out of their way to help others through this unprecedented situation. In donating to the Cash For Kids Appeal, you’ll be making a small act of kindness that can make a huge difference to families in need here across South Yorkshire.”

Allan Ogle, charity manager for Hallam FM Cash for Kids, who is heading up the appeal, added: “We’ve distributed thousands of nappies in the past few weeks to help those that need it most.

There are 118,000 children – 31%, already live in poverty across South Yorkshire and the devastating impact CORVID-19 is having on our economy will very much see that figure rise and we need your help so we can support the most vulnerable people where we live get access to the basic essentials.”

You can donate to the Cash for Kids Appeal right now by texting HALLAM to 70905 to donate £5 or online at hallamfm.co.uk/appeal. 100% of donations will go to help families with children that need it most.

School teachers, health professionals, social workers and small charitable groups will be able to apply for funds on behalf of the families they support. They can keep an eye on the Cash for Kids website for further details in the coming days.