‘We will do this again’: Council leader asks residents to summon pandemic spirit for winter charity appeal

Amongst the festive mail and flyers, some of Camden’s most well heeled homes will be getting letters from council leader Georgia Gould.

She has taken the unusual step of writing to every home in the top two council tax bands asking them to dig deep and donate to Camden Giving, which is supporting local charities and community groups.

Her letter also suggests residents donate to the Young Camden Foundation as it works with 100 charities to tackle holiday hunger.

Cllr Gould told the 17,780 recipients that the cost-of-living crisis means “too many Camden residents are facing impossible choices about how to pay for life’s essentials, such as heating, food and rent.”

In her heartfelt appeal, the leader said: “Through the pandemic, we saw communities come together and support each other and I know we will do this once again.”

She said residents have been asking how to help and she wanted to direct them towards practical ways to do so.

Cllr Gould said there are also volunteering opportunities for those unable to donate, with Volunteer Centre Camden a great place to start.

The Mayor of Camden is also running the annual toy appeal for donations of new toys, toiletries, gift vouchers or clothes for local families.

Liittle Voice is another organisation asking for donations for families of young children. Its wishlist includes toys, clothes, nappies and bedding.

Food banks across Camden are also in need of help.