Community projects all over the UK are playing a crucial role in providing relief and support to people and animals in need. With thousands of community organizations, charities, and groups operating around the clock, many of them rely solely on fundraising and donations to continue their services.
Luckily, there are numerous ways for everyone to contribute and make a difference, often with minimal effort. Enter giffgaff, a mobile phone company among over 2,000 UK companies with B Corp status, highlighting their responsibility and dedication to improving social and environmental impact. One way they support grassroots social impact is through their Payback scheme.
giffgaff customers, also known as “members,” can earn Payback Points by inviting friends to join their network and assisting other community members. These points can be redeemed for cash, used as credits, or donated to charity twice a year, with giffgaff matching the donation amount. Roxy Baciu, head of community at giffgaff, describes Payback as one of the most exciting projects to be a part of, allowing them to live out their values in a tangible way.
Interested in learning more? Here are three local community projects that have received support from the giffgaff community:
Hampshire Search and Rescue Team
Receiving 10% of total donations from giffgaff members, with giffgaff matching the amount, Hampshire Search and Rescue provides vital volunteer work, responding to police calls around the clock to search for missing vulnerable individuals not covered within the police force’s capacity.
The organization operates across the UK, with volunteers undergoing rigorous training for up to six months. Trevor Vidler, Vice Chairman of Hampshire, describes the demanding yet rewarding nature of their work and the importance of teamwork.
Continuing to receive calls for assistance, Hampshire plans to use the giffgaff donation to purchase and equip a four-wheel-drive vehicle in North Hampshire to reduce response time to emergencies in the region.
Active Support for Thames Valley
Established during the early days of the AIDS epidemic in 1985, Active Support for Thames Valley provides support to those living with HIV and AIDS. They offer guidance, support, and a safe space for individuals to connect, seek resources, and receive counseling.
Peer support is a significant service provided by TVPS, allowing individuals to seek help outside traditional working hours. The funding from giffgaff will be used towards training and travel costs for those interested in becoming peer supporters.
Animals in Need
Dependent on donations for their operations, Animals in Need rescues and provides rehabilitation services for wild and domestic animals across Northamptonshire from their headquarters at Pine Tree Farm.
Focusing on rehabilitating animals and finding them new homes, the organization plans to utilize the giffgaff funding for various projects at the farm, including improving kennels and sensory gardens for rescued dogs.
Explore more of giffgaff’s positive initiatives Giff Gaff
Source: www.theguardian.com
