Housing association donates £20k to Dorset cost of living appeal

Sovereign Housing Association has donated £20k to Dorset Community Foundation’s Surviving Winter appeal. The campaign, now in its 13th year, aims to raise £100k to support over-50s in Dorset with heating and food during winter. Sovereign's funding was matched by another charity, helping DCF reach its target. The money is distributed by Citizens Advice through £200 grants. This year, demand for the grants has increased by four and a half times compared to last year. One recipient, in their 80s, mentioned that they had to choose between having a hot meal or heating before receiving the grant.

Hannah Monk, Sovereign’s Funding and Innovation Specialist, said: “Through our Thriving Communities Strategy, we are committed to improving the wellbeing and quality of life of our residents, with one of our key focuses being ‘aging well’.

“We recognise that many older people are struggling because of increased costs. By giving to DCF, we can direct funding to those who need it the most. Importantly, working with DCF has enabled us to secure a match, doubling our donation and its impact.”

Dorset Community Foundation Chair of Trustees Tom Flood CBE added: “We are very thankful to Sovereign for this generous donation. It will allow us to make more grants that will make a huge difference to older and vulnerable people, many of whom live in fear of energy bills. The grants we’ll be able to make will give them peace of mind and security, as well as keep them warm and safe.”

For more information on other ways Sovereign is supporting its customers during the cost-of-living crisis, please visit www.sovereign.org.uk/col

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