Coronavirus has hit us all in ways we could never have anticipated. But for many UNISON members, this past year has been particularly hard.
Some have experienced a severe loss of income and a sudden increase in expenses. They have been struggling to put food on the table, pay their rent, and cover their bills.
But UNISON’s unique charity, There for You, has provided much-needed relief for well over 2,000 people through its COVID-19 response fund.
Here are just a few comments from members you’ve helped us help – all of them awarded grants in January this year.
“Thank you so much. This means everything to me – what a huge, huge help this is. I honestly cannot thank you all enough. I wish you all well.”
£500 housing costs grant
“Just wanted to say that I’ve had a good old cry after reading this – of both relief and gratitude. I really can’t articulate how much it will help and what it means to me, but after such a tough year I can only thank you all at UNISON for providing such support. Community and kindness is everything.”
£500 grant for loss of employment
“Please may I thank you and those concerned for the lovely email received telling me I have been allocated a COVID grant. I am completely overwhelmed by this and it will certainly help in the difficult times we are facing. Thank you so much from the bottom of our hearts.”
£350 living costs grant
“Can I just say thank you so much – I feel like a weight been lifted off my shoulders. It’s nice to get some good news as well, as my Dad passed away last Tuesday with COVID and now my sister and family have it too. Thank you once again.”
£350 living costs grant
There for You would not be able to do this without support from you and your branch. UNISON branches donated a fantastic £384,287 in 2020.
But with 2021 set to be more difficult still, we’re asking your branch if you can help our members and make a donation?
As this is AGM season, please raise this at your meetings and encourage your branch to donate.
And how do you donate?
Your branch can make donations to There for You by emailing thereforyou@unison.co.uk.
With your help, UNISON can continue to improve the lives of members and their families in these unprecedented, challenging times.