M.E.N Christmas appeal receives £5,000 boost from Manchester charity donor

The Manchester Evening News' Christmas appeal to help tackle hunger in Greater Manchester has smashed through its target with thanks to a very special donation from one of the city's most prominent charity donors.

This Christmas, we have partnered with Humans MCR, a Blackley-based food bank, to help make sure nobody in our region goes hungry. This is an exceptional charity that place respect and dignity at the core of their work, giving users agency over their food choices and helping lift them out of food poverty in the long-term, as well as addressing their short-term needs.

The generous £5,000 donation from the MJ Ball 2022, given by entrepreneur Michael Josephson MBE, means that Humans MCR can help feed hundreds of families as we move into the new year. Donations are vital to ensuring that this incredible local charity can keep supporting the poorest in our region and striving to end food poverty for good.

READ MORE: I was forced to turn to foodbanks after being made redundant - now I help feed others with dignity and respect

Speaking to the M.E.N, Michael Josephson MBE said: "I am more than happy for the MJ Ball 2022 to support Human MCR with the wonderful work they are doing for the families and children of Manchester, now more than ever we need to reach out and support those less fortunate and in need.

"It is my pleasure to support with a donation of £5,000 to help make a difference for the families to have a wonderful Christmas."

Michael Josephson MBE said the work Humans MCR do is 'wonderful' (Carl Sukonik)

The donation was welcomed by Humans MCR co-founder Lewey Hellewell, who set up the charity after his own 'undignified' experiences with food banks. Lewey said: "This is by far the largest single donation we have ever received and we are so grateful.

"The difference this will make to residents in GM this winter will be huge. It will allow us to continue to provide much needed food support as deep Winter hits and our hope is that this frees up funds for individuals and families to be able to make sure that their homes are warm."

We are still raising money for Humans MCR in the lead-up to Christmas. You can read more about the amazing work they do here, and donate to our campaign here.

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