Down Syndrome International
Global Support 2020 - Urgent Appeal
We need your support with our urgent appeal at this difficult time, to respond and continue our work. Donate or fundraise now.
Story
DSi is here to support and bring together the Down syndrome community through the COVID-19 pandemic.
Our critical work continues to improve lives and ensure equal rights for all people with Down syndrome.
We are needed now
DSi's crucial work is needed now, more than ever. The COVID-19 pandemic itself requires a specific and vital response by our community.
Since March, we have responded quickly and effectively.
We also have a number of much needed projects in other areas, working with our membership network, which we have been adapting to the changing situation and trying to maintain pre-agreed funding for.
See examples of our other work
Why is this appeal urgent?
DSi has seen a dramatic loss in recent income (90% in April compared to last year), due to the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown coinciding with World Down Syndrome Day. We anticipate further income shortfalls this year.
Our national member organisations are responding to the pandemic. But many are losing income and struggling to deliver their vital services, even when demand for those services, just like ours, has never been higher.
In a recent DSi survey of our member organisations:
71% reported they have reduced funding
72% have to operate at a reduced level
DSi has funding secured to continue projects with our members, some of which is specifically for a COVID-19 response.
But these funds must be spent on project specific costs.
Because we are facing a marked fall in the types of funding that would normally help to cover our core running costs, we face the likely possibility of not being able to pay for our vital headquarters staff, who must be in place to enable us to deliver on our projects.
We operate with a small, dedicated and efficient team. We cannot afford a huge drop in our funding. We do not have the benefit of substantial funding reserves and this situation could possibly make the future for DSi unsustainable.
Please give today
We understand that people and organisations across the world are facing similar challenging times to us.
But we ask you to consider making a donation of any amount or doing some much needed fundraising for DSi in any way you can.
Now is when we need your support.
Thank you!