It is a fact right now that thousands of Children and adults across Portsmouth do not have enough to eat. In September, Tesco Cosham supported over 6,000 people locally through community links.

During the Holidays, when free school meals are not available the problem escalates, we wanted to do something that focused on Christmas. So, we (local ordinary people), some who run charities, some involved supporting local people daily are launching this appeal supported by Tesco.

The idea is simple, "Can we support 25 families or individuals by raising £25 per family to feed one family on the 25th December." Could we support 250 families. It's a bold question to ask oneself in August! but here we are, can we do this amazing thing?

What is also a fact. No one particular group in society is unaffected by this. Economic, family, health and other reasons have led people to desperation. I am aghast at the number of children and adults who are hungry all the time. It feels like we are back in Dickensian times!

250 families is a bold plan and we need your help. The donations that come through this scheme will go to support local people across Portsmouth in different ways.

For example:

£25 will provide a hamper of goodies to a family Christmas day

£5 will provide gas and electric to heat a home over Christmas

£100 will feed 10 lonely people who can come together over Christmas to be loved, looked after and fed. (Do you know a group??)

£25 will buy a gift for someone who otherwise has nothing.

Q: Why not get involved. Maybe your Church, school, local pub, workplace could collect sponsorship money that will benefit children, families or those lonely. See website for info: www.252525.org.uk (live 1st Nov)

Thanks for your support. Please do donate all you can.

All monies raised go to those were doing it for. There is a just giving fee of 5% but we felt we needed an easy mechanic. The website and other admin time is all done for free.