AFTER the launch of the Gazette-backed Surviving Winter Appeal, the Bishop of Brentwood, the Rt Rev Thomas McMahon, has pledged his support.
The campaign aims to provide vital aid such as a hot meal or help paying heating bills to elderly and vulnerable members of our community during the winter months.
Bishop Thomas said: "I am very pleased to give my support to the Surviving Winter Appeal.
"We all know that the winter can be a difficult time for elderly and vulnerable people as they can become housebound and cut off from the wider community.
"They are not only at risk from being cold and hungry, but they can also miss out on the warmth gained from human contact.
"This worthwhile campaign will mean that they can be given essential items to see them through the winter as well as the contact and support they need to ensure their overall wellbeing.
"The spirit of giving and goodwill is never greater than at this time of year, so I would urge the people of Essex to give their support to this vital appeal."
There are many ways to donate to this year's appeal to help us reach our target of £50,000. Give online at www.justgiving.com/winter-appeal-2012 or text COLD00£10 (or any other amount) to 70070. Send a cheque to the appeal, payable to Essex Community Foundation, at 121 New London Road, Chelmsford, CM2 0QT or donate your winter fuel allowance by contacting the Essex Community Foundation on 01245 355947.
