Musicians raise over £50,000 to tackle child poverty in Sunderland
Funds from the Music Against Child Poverty concert will help Love, Amelia provide essential support to young people
A Sunderland charity supporting families experiencing financial hardship has received more than £50,000 after musicians from across the region united for a major fundraising concert.
Love, Amelia, which provides essential items, emotional support and community-driven initiatives for children and families, was presented with cheque for more than £51k following this year’s Music Against Child Poverty event, organised by Sunderland Music City and held at The Fire Station on December 14.
Now in its second year, the fundraising concert brought together a diverse line-up of performers who donated their time, including Mickey Callisto, Frankie Francis, Small Town Brass, Ani Sandwith, Manny 234, Kathryn Williams, Tom A Smith, The Cornshed Sisters and The Lake Poets.
The total raised includes income from ticket sales, merchandise, sponsorship and additional donations raised through Sunderland Music City’s Keys of the City Guinness World Record attempt.
Volunteers, staff, the Lord Lieutenant of Tyne and Wear Lucy Winskell, and members of the Sunderland Music City team visited the charity this week to see the impact the funds will make.
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.”
Frankie Francis, who programmed and hosted the event, said: “This is what’s possible when our community comes together as one. 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.”
Love, Amelia is accepting donations until Sunday (December 21), with gifts for children aged 10–18 particularly needed. The charity is based at 3 Glaholm Road, Hendon.