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The Norfolk and Norwich Christian community website

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Appeal after Covid-19 causes biggest challenge

The Matthew Project says that 2020 is one of the most challenging years it has ever faced due to the Covid-19 pandemic and a real increase in mental health issues and substance misuse especially alcohol abuse.

It also says that “whilst we can see the light at the end of the tunnel, the impact will be felt for months and years to come.
 
CEO Andy Sexton CEO said: “At a time when our services are needed most by both children and adults across East Anglia, our funding is under pressure. That is why we’re taking part in a nationwide campaign called The Big Give Christmas Challenge, backed by celebrities such as Sophie Ellis-Bexter, Michael Palin and Ed Balls to name a few.

"Until 12pm on Tuesday December 8, The Matthew Project is asking for your Christmas donations and there’s a bonus... Every donation will be doubled with our pre secured match funds. There is no better time for giving to charity than now.”
 
Established 36 years ago, The Matthew Project supports children whose parents have substance misuse issues and teenagers learning about the dangers of alcohol and drugs. It also works with young people engaged in moving forwards with education, training or employment, adults in recovery, parents whose children take drugs and don't want to stop, and veterans with PTSD.

At any one time, it could be working with up to 500 people a week with 1-2-1 support and a much-in-demand service.

Despite lockdown, we have been able to continue some of this work at our Next Steps Centre in Norwich, launched in 2019 with funding from Public Health England via Norfolk County Council Public Health.
 
You can watch a video made with service users, volunteers and staff with more info about the campaign click here to watch.

Click here to support The Matthew Project in The Big Give.

 

Keith Morris, 02/12/2020

Keith Morris
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