Donna Hutchison

However, Aberdeen Cyrenians faces a race against time to capitalise on the pre-Christmas cash boost, and has sounded a rallying call to its army of supporters to ask for help.

The charity has been selected to take part in The Big Give Christmas Challenge – a national initiative that doubles the impact of public donations through private match funding – but there is a window of just eight days for supporters to make pledges that will qualify for the top-up.

The challenge runs from November 28 to December 5 and every single penny raised during this time will be essential in helping Aberdeen Cyrenians deliver its services. The organisation has seen a staggering 66% increase in people seeking support with complex needs such as homelessness, abuse, violence and social exclusion over the past year – and there are fears the figure could increase even further.

Aberdeen Cyrenians was able to raise almost £10,000 in additional funds by taking part in the Big Give Christmas Challenge in 2022, and it hopes to grow the tally this year with the support of the local community.

Donna Hutchison, head of corporate and business services at Aberdeen Cyrenians, said: “Money raised from the Big Give campaign means that we can continue to provide positive support, tailored to the individual and designed to build resilience.

“Demand for our services is rising and more and more people are in crisis. Sadly, demand for support will only increase during this cost-of-living crisis so we must maximise every fundraising opportunity. The best thing about the Big Give campaign is that our supporters don’t need to do take any additional action – all they need to do is donate and our match funders will double their donation.

“We know that times are tough for everyone but ask that if people can donate, they please consider contributing. Every pound has the power to make positive change. Together we can make a lasting impact and give hope a home.

“We want to thank the Big Give, our champion the Reed Foundation, and everyone that has pledged their funds for matching this December. It helps so much to encourage donations when people know they’ll be doubled.”

Big Give is a match funding platform that enables the public to maximise their support for good causes. By connecting charities with funders such as large corporates and philanthropists, Big Give has been able to raise more than £247 million in additional funds.

The Big Give Christmas Challenge ends at 12 noon Tuesday, December 5. Donations can be made here. To view all of Aberdeen Cyrenians’ Festive appeals, please visit the website.