Appeal launched to keep Milton Keynes community safe, warm and well this winter

Milton Keynes Community Foundation has launched an emergency fundraising appeal in response to the alarming rise in the Cost of Living in Milton Keynes.

With energy prices set to soar this winter, many people in Milton Keynes will be forced to choose between heating and eating; an impossible choice that no individual or family should have to make.

Combining with the organisation’s annual Surviving Winter appeal, The Cost-of-Living Crisis Appeal has been set up to help with the relief of energy price increases, food poverty and other associated costs caused directly or indirectly by the Cost-of-Living Crisis for the residents of Milton Keynes.

Ian Revell, Chief Executive at the Foundation said:  “With the rise in costs, this really is the time for people who can to give what they can and support some of the most vulnerable families in Milton Keynes and make a real difference for our city.”

Demand on community groups supporting vulnerable families has increased dramatically in recent months.

For example, MK Food Bank is already operating at levels typically seen in January. “84 phone calls, 300 emergency parcels, and 26 brand new families.” said Louisa Hobbs, Operations Manager at MK Food Bank. “That’s been our week so far – and it’s only Wednesday.”

Donations made will go into the Cost-of-Living Fund, which will enable community groups to continue their vital work across the city, helping those who have been affected most by the crisis.

You can lend your support to this vital campaign by:

• Donating your winter fuel payment
• Making a one-off donation
• Donate your £400 energy bills discount (this can be done via direct debit in 6 instalments of £66 throughout the winter period).

With your kindness, we can help some of the most vulnerable people in our community to stay warm, safe, and well this winter.

In 2021, MK Community Foundation launched an emergency COVID-19 recovery appeal, which saw 314 grants to the sum of £1.6m given out to help and support local charitable organisations to recover from the effects of the pandemic.