Charity launches emergency fundraising appeal to support young people in Norfolk and Suffolk
Break has recorded a reduction in income by £2.1 million due to the pandemic
A charity which supports young people in Norfolk and Suffolk has launched an emergency fundraising appeal.
Break helps people on the edge of care, in care and moving on from care, and is hoping to recover some of the £2.1 million drop in income it's lost due to Covid-19.
The loss has come as a result of its charity shops being closed and fundraising events being put on hold.
CEO of the charity, Rachel Cowdry, said:
"For many of the young people we support, Covid has proven their worst fear – that the world is a scary and unpredictable place, and it has only added to the barriers they face. The year has been incredibly intense for our team and the young people we support, dealing with home schooling, increased feelings of isolation and not being able to provide opportunities for those ready for the workplace or next step.
"But I am so proud of Break’s incredible team who have gone the extra mile in delivering our vital services, and the team has also been innovative in coming up with fun ideas to engage everyone, such as Motivational Monday, Workout Wednesday, providing activity packs for our community, meal kits and online courses."
While the pandemic has provided difficulties for charities across the country, Break has found there has been some positives come out of it.
According to the charity, young people are more engaged with their support services than ever before, as they prefer the transition to virtual sessions.
Rachel continued: "We have just reopened our charity shops and have restarted our Coffee Break van, which enables young care leavers the chance to engage in real work and learn new skills. Plus, we have a new initiative, Building Futures, to provide workshops and skills in a career in construction.
"Of course, we also have Cows About Cambridge and the GoGoDiscover T.rex trail this summer, but we really need support now so that we can continue with the vital services we offer."
To support the Be There for Break appeal, visit the charity's website.