A CHRISTIAN charity has launched a crowdfunding appeal to help vulnerable families in Brixton, south London, get through the coronavirus crisis. 

CHIPS, the international Christian peacemaking charity,  says it wants to offer struggling families urgent practical and emotional support and provide young people and their schools with a programme of activities to support mental health and keep them connected to their community. 

Paul Maxwell-Rose, Co-Director (Programmes) at CHIPS, said:

“The coronavirus crisis is placing a strain on Brixton families like never before. Every day we’re meeting more parents who’ve lost their jobs, households struggling to afford the basics, young people feeling isolated and frustrated, and teachers concerned about the wellbeing of vulnerable students while schools are closed. 

“That’s why we’re putting in place a programme of support to help struggling families to get back on track and young people stay connected, positive and healthy during a time of significant disruption to their development. 

Maxwell-Rose continued: “As peacemakers, we’re truly inspired to see the huge outpouring of goodwill in our local community right now. So many people are pulling together, new partnerships are being forged and new volunteers are engaging for the first time.

“So, we’d ask our neighbours who are able to give generously to our appeal. Even a small donation will make a big difference to a vulnerable family or young person and could help them make it through this crisis. And together, we can help our community to build the strong relationships that it will need long after the crisis has gone.”

Programme of support

Among the support that the charity aims to offer is:

·         Listening, mentoring and support with employment, financial, emotional and other issues through regular phone check-ins.

·         A programme of innovative online activities to help young people combat isolation, including group challenges, fitness and creative activities developed in partnership with young people themselves. 

·         Practical help for families for their most urgent needs, from assistance with shopping and prescriptions to food and fuel top-ups when there’s nobody else to help.

·         A signposting service to direct vulnerable people to the right place for specialist support from partner charities, community groups and local authority teams.

·         Provision of resources to help young people continue their learning while schools are closed.

CHIPS is also working closely with several other community organisations and with schools to maximise its reach and impact. 

Strong networks

Rishan Walker, Youth Worker at CHIPS, said: “The months ahead will be tough for everyone, but particularly so for those teenagers who lack strong family and community support networks during lockdown. 

“I’m really excited about the ideas we’ve been developing with our local young people to help them stay connected and motivated, from online challenges to virtual fitness and dance sessions and creative activities.”

She added: “I’m confident this will support strong relationships, mental health and wellbeing and give Brixton’s vulnerable young people a real helping hand towards a positive future.”

If you would like to support CHIPS click here