£11,821!

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Winter has arrived in north London. Snow is falling from Kentish Town to Kilburn, wine is being mulled and there’s plenty of opportunities for festive drinks with friends.  Yet what can be the most fun time of year for young professionals can also leave older neighbours feeling left behind, or needing a bit of extra help

That’s why we run our Winter Wellbeing project – and thanks to you, it’s going to be bigger and better than ever this year.

Often we meet neighbours who just need help to keep warm in winter – like Deborah in Mildmay who told us that because of the fuel grant she received from us, she could put the heating on for the first time in a month.

But Winter Wellbeing isn’t just about helping our neighbours with practical support. It’s about building genuine connections in our community. And neighbours like Sylvia, who we met last year through Winter Wellbeing, is a good example of this.

Sylvia was keeping warm but was looking for a new friend – someone she could share a cup of tea and a chat with. Through knocking on her door, we introduced her to Sarah. And ever since, their friendship has gone from strength to strength. As Sylvia says, “They knocked on the door… and we’ve been friends ever since”.

Indeed, so many older neighbours we meet  are reassured by that weekly company, conversation and companionship.

From Tuesday 28th November to Tuesday 5th December, North London Cares took part in the Big Give Christmas Challenge, to raise money for our Winter Wellbeing project. Through the campaign, every donation made was doubled -  your £20 became £40, and £40 donated because £80. 

Amazingly, over seven days, 77 of you supported the campaign and raised an amazing £11,821, so that your older neighbours can feel warm, active, healthy and connected this winter. We are chuffed by your support.

We also want to say thank you to those who provided the match funding; the Postcode Support Trust, Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group, Octopus Investments and the individual donors who made the Big Give Christmas Challenge possible. We couldn’t have done it without you.

Even now, you’re helping neighbours like Johanna, who we met last month, receive a warm blanket, pair of socks and conversation this winter.

We can't wait to share more stories about the difference your donations have made!

Feeling inspired? It’s not too late to donate! You can help make our winter activities possible and support your older neighbours this winter by donating here.