Radio station's appeal to help underprivileged children during coronavirus outbreak

In response to the impact of coronavirus on local communities, Rock FM's Cash for Kids is today launching an urgent new appeal to help those families in Lancashire who need it most.
Cash for KidsCash for Kids
Cash for Kids

Relying on donations from listeners and locals, the Cash for Kids Appeal will build a fund from which grants will help families help cope, such as covering basic essentials including food and heating.

The appeal is aimed at the most vulnerable within our community who may be feeling the direct impact of the current situation most keenly. These include families on zero hours contracts who may be facing reduced or completely cut-back hours, or no access to sick pay.

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Rock FM’s Cash for Kids understand the impact that the closure of schools to the majority of children will have on underprivileged families. Grants from the appeal will also be made available to those that children who receive free school meals, over and above the Government’s voucher scheme.

Speaking about the new appeal, Rock FMs Breakfast Host Joel Ross said “We have already been hearing incredible stories of generosity from our listeners, as individuals go out of their way to help others through this unprecedented situation.

"In donating to the Cash For Kids Appeal, you’ll be making a small act of kindness that can make a huge difference to families in need here in Lancashire.”

Sally Aitchison, managing director of Cash for Kids, said: “We have all been affected by the COVID-19 situation in some way, however right now those on low incomes or who are living in or on the brink of poverty will be really feeling the pressure.

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"With already four million children living in poverty in the UK, the impact of the current situation is sure to see that number increase. We want to do what we can to support these families. We are uniquely placed in our communities to identify the families.”

Locals can donate to the Cash for Kids Appeal right now by texting ROCK to 70905, 70910 or 70920 to donate £5, £10 or £20 or online at https://planetradio.co.uk/rock-fm/charity/events/appeal-rock/. 100% of donations will go to help families with children that need it most.

School teachers, health professionals, social workers and small charitable groups will be able to apply for funds on behalf of the families they support. They can keep an eye on the Cash for Kids website for further details in the coming days.

A message from the Editorial Director, Gillian Parkinson:

Thank you for reading this story on our website.

But I also have an urgent plea to make of you.

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With the coronavirus lockdown having a major impact on our town centres and many of our valued advertisers - and consequently the advertising that we receive - we are more reliant than ever on you buying a copy when you pop out for your essential shop or subscribing for delivery.

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We thank all our readers and advertisers for their understanding and support - and we wish YOU all the best in the coming weeks. Keep safe, and follow the Government advice. Thank you.

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