Leicester gets The Giving Project off to a great start

“We know children and families on our doorstep in Leicestershire need support, and the money raised by The Giving Project will go to local projects that really can help. I wholeheartedly support this campaign so I’m urging other businesses to get involved and give where we live.”

Businesses, community groups and councillors have pledged their support to The Giving Project, launched by Voluntary Action LeicesterShire (VAL), which delivers vital support to community projects to lift local children out of poverty.

Research shows that child poverty is one of the biggest issues facing communities in Leicester and Leicestershire, and The Giving Project brings the community together to tackle this crucial issue on home ground. Over 50% of children in some areas of Leicester & Leicestershire are living in poverty; 64% of children in areas of New Parks, Leicester and Agar Nook, Coalville live in severe poverty.

For some, poverty means lacking the basics in life: food, shelter and hygiene. But families struggling to provide an environment where their children can learn, develop and thrive are also living with poverty.

All money raised will go to local group projects such as Bits for Bikes, to provide bicycles, helmets and cycling lessons to children and families, or a community Growing Group to develop existing allotments, learning new skills and growing fresh foods for community benefit. Other projects include mentoring for disadvantaged children to develop their social skills and confidence and inter-generational cooking classes.

To be part of The Giving Project register and get your free fundraising kit from The Giving Project website, email info@givingproject.org.uk or follow @VALGiving.