This year's Winter Warmth Appeal has been launched across south Cumbria with fears that people in need will reach their highest numbers.
To mark the beginning of the 2024 fund, Ulverston's Hoad Monument was wrapped up in a 33-metre scarf to remind locals that a number of older Cumbrians are facing a potentially 'deadly' cold.
Organised by Cumbria Community Foundation, it is hoped that residents will give the appeal their support and help ensure no one has to choose between heating and eating.
Read more: Concern that older Cumbrians will suffer this winter | The Westmorland Gazette
One such person is 95-year-old Rosemary Hargreave, who lives in Kendal, and received help last year.
Despite the lifeline it offered her, she has chosen not to apply this in 2024 in the hope it will stretch the fund even further for those in need.
She said: “I used it for electricity and gas, and it was very, very helpful. It meant I didn’t have to worry or think about it.
“This year, after the Government stopped the payment, I think there might be more people who need it. I live on my own so I try to live as carefully as I can”.
Last year, over £315,000 was awarded in grants – through delivery partners Age UK and Copeland Age and Advice Service – benefitting a total of 1,941 vulnerable older people across the county.
The Foundation’s 2024 Appeal target is to raise £500,000, with oney donated by the public then redistributed to those most in need, to allow them to stay warm without worrying about the cost.
Read more: The Westmorland Gazette backs The Winter Warmth Appeal | The Westmorland Gazette
Jenny Benson, Director of Programmes and Partnerships at Cumbria Community Foundation, commented: "We want to remind everyone not to forget the older vulnerable members of our community who are facing a winter of suffering because they cannot afford to heat their homes adequately.
"As we look towards winter, we know that the continued support of our donors will be vital - we know that many pensioners already find winter a struggle.
"The withdrawal of the Winter Fuel Payment from all but the most vulnerable people means that this year will be especially difficult for many older Cumbrians."
Every year in Cumbria, between 300 and 500 older people die because of problems related to not being able to afford to heat their home.
The Foundation has run the appeal every year since 2010, raising more than £2.5m in total.
To help boost donations, a match funding challenge will run from Monday, November 11 to Friday, December 13.
During this period, anyone who donates will have their contribution doubled, thanks to the generosity of match funding champions, who this year include Electricity North West, WCF Ltd, and Cumberland and Westmorland and Furness Councils.
To donate, you can visit the link here or you can call 01900 825760 between the hours of 9am-5pm.
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