Celtic help vulnerable communities with launch of £400,000 fuel crisis scheme

Add as preferred source on Google

Celtic FC Foundation have today announced the launch of a £400,000 initiative that could end up helping as many as 17,000 people this winter.

As you’ll be well aware, energy costs are at the forefront of concerns for many in society over the coming months, and the least well-off are at the most risk of harm as a result.

Celtic’s charitable arm has fully funded the new £400k scheme and partnered with the Fuel Bank Foundation to help thousands of households across the country.

As many as 6,200 homes will receive a £49 fuel voucher, with an additional 500 people receiving a £100 ‘winter warm self-care pack’ that will include a £30 food voucher alongside blankets, socks and hand warmers.

Celtic FC Foundation Chief Executive, Tony Hamilton, said: “Life is becoming increasingly difficult for many people in our communities, and we must do something to help alleviate that.

“Energy prices today are double what they were only a year ago and, although there’s some protection with the current price cap, that is set to rise again in April.

“The Foundation is in a position to help some people through this investment, and, although £400,000 is a big number for us, there are so many more individuals and families needing help that we just won’t reach.

“Thanks to our partners and those who have donated to get us to this point. There’s something truly special about those who support the Foundation and the club in this way – and we will never take that support for granted.”

Head of the Fuel Bank Foundation, Matthew Cole, said: “Fuel Bank is delighted to partner with Celtic FC Foundation to provide much-needed crisis energy support.

“Fuel Bank first developed the concept of providing crisis help to households who prepay for energy through a mix of emergency fuel vouchers and simple and easy to action advice, and since launch have helped over 650,000 people. Without Fuel Bank help, households risk living without heat, light and power.

“And, with the generous support of Celtic FC Foundation, around 17,000 additional people will be helped this coming winter. Now more than ever before has the issue of fuel poverty been more relevant and, through this unique partnership, Celtic FC Foundation and Fuel Bank will come together to help families who otherwise would miss out.”

Celtic FC Foundation are striving to help the most disadvantaged wards as identified in the Scottish Multiple Index of Deprivation. However, they will also welcome applications from anywhere in Scotland as long as the person is facing a demonstrable fuel crisis.

Applying for the help is a straightforward online process, which helps them ensure the support goes to the people who need it most. To begin, and to read the FAQs, click HERE.

In other news, Ange Postecoglou delivers promising Callum McGregor Celtic injury update.