Somerset Community Foundation (SCF) has launched their Somerset Cost-of-Living Crisis Appeal with an urgent call for donations which will help fund local charities helping local people living in poverty through the cost-of-living crisis. 

With inflation at a 40-year high and energy bills rocketing, thousands of Somerset households are facing incredibly tough times ahead. The Somerset Cost-of-Living Fund, which will open for applications from local charities soon, will provide rapid support to local charities and community organisations across the county of Somerset, many of whom are already experiencing record numbers of people seeking help.  

Justin Sargent, Chief Executive at SCF, explains: "As everyday costs rapidly outpace wage and benefit growth, many of our neighbours are living through exceptionally challenging circumstances. Many are already struggling to meet basic needs such as adequate food, transport and energy costs, and that will only get worse as we head into the winter and more people are plunged into poverty due to increased energy costs. 

"We will be building on 20 years of experience to raise vital funds and get them where they are most needed throughout Somerset. Whether young families living in poverty, older people on fixed incomes, or people facing financial stress and anxiety, Somerset's army of local charities, community organisations and volunteers will do everything they can to alleviate the impact of the cost-of-living crisis on those most affected." 

SCF is pleased to announce that the appeal has already been boosted with an initial donation of £50,000 from Somerset County Council.  

The charity is now inviting local people, businesses and organisations who can and wish to help, to donate to the Somerset Cost-of-Living Crisis Appeal today to help SCF provide funding to vital local charities supporting local people in poverty. Visit: www.somersetcf.org.uk/costofliving or call 01749 344949. 

Donations will fund crucial local work such as debt advice organisations, food banks, mental health support, help for people with disabilities or older people, and homelessness organisations.  

Justin added: "Charities are also facing the huge challenges of increased costs to carry out their work, soaring demand and fewer donations from the public. With your support, we can help our vital local charities so they can be there for those in greatest need in Somerset." 

Somerset Community Foundation is a charity that helps passionate people in Somerset change the world on their doorstep by funding local charities and inspiring local giving and philanthropy. They aim to build stronger communities in Somerset where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. They provide rewarding and impactful ways for donors to give through them, to the causes and places they care about most. Together, they fund amazing organisations and the passionate people that change lives every day.  

Since SCF were founded in 2002 they've awarded over £19 million in funding, changing thousands of lives across Somerset.