We're helping to tackle child poverty in Sunderland and beyond
City musicians and music fans have rallied together to raise a huge £50,000 for a local baby bank.
Some of the biggest names in Sunderland music, including Mickey Callisto, Frankie Francis, Small Town Brass, Ani Sandwith, Manny 234, Kathryn Williams, Tom A Smith, The Cornshed Sisters and The Lake Poets performed at Music Against Child Poverty, a Christmas concert to raise funds for Love, Amelia.
Organised by Sunderland Music City, the concert took placed at The Fire Station to raise funds for the Hendon-based charity, which supports children and families facing financial hardship in the North East.
Through the provision of essential items, emotional support, and community-driven initiatives, the charity works to ensure every child has a fair start in life.
Sunderland Music City has donated £51,684.10 to the charity thanks to ticket sales, merchandise and sponsorship for its Music Against Child Poverty event, as well as further donations from its Keys of the City Guinness World Record attempt.
Steph Capewell, CEO of Love, Amelia, said: “We’re incredibly grateful to the Sunderland Music City team and to everyone in the community who came out once again to support Love, Amelia.
“Events like this show the real power of music to connect people and create positive change; Music Against Child Poverty captures that perfectly.
“The phenomenal amount raised will have a significant impact on the children and families we support, and the standard of talent throughout the event was outstanding.
“It’s a privilege to be part of something that brings so much good together.”
“This is what’s possible when our community comes together as one,” said Sunderland Music City’s Frankie Francis, who programmed and hosted the Music Against Child Poverty show.
“We’re all incredibly grateful for the passion and generosity shown by musicians, audiences, volunteers, partners, sponsors and staff, as well as The Fire Station for hosting us.
“It’s a privilege to work with Steph and her amazing team at Love, Amelia to bring Christmas cheer to families in need.”
How you can help
Love, Amelia is accepting donations until close of business on Sunday, December 21, for families that need it most this Christmas.
Gift donations for children aged 10-18 are currently needed most, but anything you can give is invaluable and will make the world of difference this festive period.
The charity is based at 3 Glaholm Road, Hendon.