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Visit the charity's profileRBF's Childrens Fund was launched in May this year, when we experienced a huge rise in requests for help from families with children. The impact of lockdown, of home schooling and of reductions in income for rail families has created real difficulties for many, who are struggling to cover the basic costs families incur when bringing up children.
We have already supported over 30 families and children via the Childrens Fund so far this year and have already seen an increase in demand this winter as energy costs rise and families start to feel the financial strain of Christmas. Our Childrens Fund offers grants of around £300 to purchase anything from school uniforms, sports kit and equipment, school books and new-born essentials.
Sally, a mum working as a platform assistant in the Midlands, recently received a grant from the RBF Childrens Fund. She said:
When I lost my overtime and became ill with Covid and had time off work, I found we were really struggling to afford the essentials, let alone think about Christmas costs. At first, I was reluctant to reach out to RBF but Im so glad I did- they provided us with a grant of £300 to buy new winter coats for my children. Its one less stress for me knowing I dont have to worry about that cost!
Hayley and her partner both work in rail. This year, the pandemic has meant the family really struggled financially with changing work hours, a reduction in overtime and taking time off to look after the children when schools were closed.
Hayley soon realised they were spiraling into debt, struggling to cope and unable to afford even the little things for the children. She had heard about RBF through work but was initially reluctant to ask for help. It wasn't until her daughter told her what she was going to wish for this Christmas, that she knew she had to reach out to help her family.
As a charity, we rely on the generosity of our supporters and the donations they raise- all of which go straight to funding the welfare and crisis needs of people working in rail. By donating, you will make a real difference to railway families this Christmas and help to make this wish come true.
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