Two charities behind Translink’s Christmas fundraising campaign, Stuff a Bus, have recorded a huge increase in pleas for help from families across Northern Ireland in the mouth of Christmas.
St Vincent de Paul and The Salvation Army’s staff and volunteers have received more calls than ever this year from those seeking help, citing the cost-of-living crisis.
Major Jacqui Wright, Family Appeal Co-ordinator at The Salvation Army said: “We have seen a 25% increase this year in calls from families needing our support with things like food, shelter, toys and even clothes. It’s clear to see the impact of rising household bills and costs. That’s why we’re doing all we can for people across Northern Ireland, whatever their circumstances.”
Read more: Translink urges public to get behind Stuff A Bus appeal and help give families the gift of Christmas
“The sad reality is that many children across Northern Ireland are set to wake up without presents under the tree this year if they’ve been lucky enough to get a tree at all. With families feeling the pinch, many people face the gruelling decision between heating and eating before gifts for children even come into the equation. This makes our campaign more vital than ever this year.”
Stuff a Bus NI, which is now it in its sixth year, has previously raised money for both charities alongside collecting toys. This year the campaign is aiming to raise £75k for families to give them more choice (on what they spend) at Christmas.
Mary Waide, Regional President North Region at St Vincent de Paul added: “We are currently receiving in excess of 3,000 calls a week from families requesting help. We’re estimating that by the end of the year about 200,000 people will have contacted SVP in Northern Ireland for support.
The cost-of-living crisis is putting increased pressure on everyone this year with families across the country are being forced to make impossible choices between heating their homes or putting food on the table. It’s important that we as a charity support them by giving the gift of dignity and choice. This means families who receive vouchers from the generous donations received through Stuff A Bus can use the money where it’s needed most and help them get through winter, with a touch of magic for children this Christmas.”
Chris Conway, Translink Group Chief Executive added: “Many households regularly face a challenging Christmas. However, the additional cost-of-living crisis is forcing even more families into poverty. Last year the generosity and support of our passengers, staff and the general public, enabled us to raise over £100,000, which helped to support almost 40,000 children here in Northern Ireland. We’re asking once again for online donations which St Vincent de Paul and the Salvation Army will use to purchase children’s toys as well as vouchers for food and heating - helping families where they need it the most.”
You can donate now at www.stuffabusni.com and follow the conversation online using #StuffABusNI or keep up to date with fundraising efforts and announcements on U105 Radio and Belfast Live.
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