In a heartening display of generosity and solidarity, the Guardian’s Hope appeal has raised over £1 million to support grassroots charities working to foster community, tolerance, and empathy. The appeal, which closed on Thursday, partnered with five organisations – Citizens UK, the Linking Network, Locality, Hope Unlimited Charitable Trust, and Who Is Your Neighbour? – whose inspiring projects aim to tackle social division, racism, and hatred.
Katharine Viner, the Guardian’s editor-in-chief, expressed her delight at the public’s response, stating: “The theme of this year’s Guardian charity appeal was hope, supporting fantastic projects that foster community, tolerance and empathy.” She noted that the appeal’s timing was particularly poignant, as the Guardian’s reporting had “captured the increased alarm most of us feel over the return of 1970s-style racist abuse, the demonisation of refugees and the resurgence of far-right marches in Britain’s streets.”
Over the past six weeks, the Guardian has published features and short films highlighting the partner charities’ initiatives, the people behind them, and the individuals and communities who benefit. These practical programmes are designed to build trust, promote positive change, and address a range of local issues, from affordable housing to youth clubs and food kitchens.
The overwhelming response from readers has been heartwarming, with one donor writing: “I’m so glad the Guardian is supporting organisations which bring people together, supporting what is humane and in common amongst us all.” The appeal raised £1,035,000, inclusive of estimated Gift Aid, with more than 10,000 readers contributing.
Tony Armstrong, the chief executive of Locality, expressed his gratitude, saying: “Your donations will help Locality members create resilience, pride and opportunity in some of our most disadvantaged neighbourhoods.” Similarly, a spokesperson for the Linking Network stated: “This incredible opportunity is a chance to engage more children and young people with our work of building more connected communities.”
The Guardian’s charity appeals have a long history of supporting good causes, raising over £16 million for initiatives ranging from refugee support and homelessness to child poverty and the climate crisis. This latest success is a testament to the power of community, empathy, and the Guardian’s dedicated readership, who have once again stepped up to make a positive difference.