52 Lives

#246 A family in need

Request: Donations / Messages

This week, we’d like to help a family from the West Midlands who are vulnerable and extremely isolated.

The mum is suffering from mental health issues, and is being cared for by her partner. They have 4 children who are all being home-schooled. But they have no internet access, no out-going calls, no computers, and very few books.

They were nominated by a council support worker, who said they are going through an incredibly difficult time. She said they are not currently receiving the allowances they may be entitled to, as they struggle with paperwork and aren’t able to have any home visits at the moment to receive support.

One of their children was undergoing an assessment for autism before Covid hit, so this dramatic change in circumstances has also made life much more challenging for him.

This is a family under severe strain, and we would love to do something to help make life better for the 4 children, and take some pressure off their mum and dad.

What We Need

1. Donations: We will use your donations to pay for computers, internet access, a printer, books, and anything else the children need. Any funds raised above what we need for this will be used to help the family in other ways. 100% of what you donate will be used to help them. To make a donation, please click the link below.

2. Kind Messages: This family has been incredibly isolated since the lockdown, and we'd love to send them some kind messages to let them know they aren't alone. To send a message, please write it in the form below and we will pass it along (your contact details will not be shared). If you would like to post something for them, please send it to 52 Lives (Life # 246), PO Box 3154, Reading, RG1 9AT.

What We Did

In two days we doubled the target, raising almost £2000! They have now received a big delivery of books, a computer, equipment for school, vouchers for food, new beds and so many kind messages. We've also arranged for them to have internet access to help the children stay connected and take part in lessons.

The family was nominated by a council support worker, who said they are in real need. But when I spoke to the family last week, they were quite proud and reluctant to ask for much at all. I left a message for the dad to let him know what to expect in the post today...he couldn't believe what was happening. Thank you all so much for what you've done for them so far. In two days, you have already helped to change this family's life.

(Thank you also to the Baby Bank for donating books, and to Gala Bingo for their incredible fundraising!)