As the holiday season kicks into full gear, shoppers likely find themselves scanning through countless aisles of toys, clothing and gadgets, hoping to stumble upon the ideal gift for their loved ones. Yet for some, this season can be difficult. The cost-of-living crisis looms large in the U.K., with many kids in Aberdeen going without warm clothing or food as the holidays approach.
“Understanding the needs of our community is central to the work we do,” said Jillian Owen, Apache North Sea country manager. “Over the years, we have worked with several partners to help serve those who are less fortunate, and if we are able to improve the lives of those around us in any measure, we are honored to do so.”
Community Food Initiatives North East (CFINE) is an Aberdeen-based food bank and social enterprise charity dedicated to improving the health and well-being of disadvantaged, low-income individuals and families. In December, Apache announced a donation to CFINE, which will go on to support emergency food access, pantries and community food outlets across the city.
“After our team in the North Sea raised funds for CFINE, they were thrilled to hear that the company would also be donating to the cause, which we unveiled at our annual holiday party this year,” said Jillian. “Knowing that we are making an intentional impact that resonates with our people and our community truly confirms how important these partnerships are.”
Cash for Kids, a grant-giving charity helping children in need across the U.K., makes it their mission to ensure that disadvantaged children experience the joys of the holidays, whether through large or small donations. Earlier this year, Apache partnered with the organization in their coat appeal, which helped provide 1,000 children with coats to see them through the winter.
“Our coat appeal has seen a huge increase in applications this year, increasing by 25%,” said Lou Douglas, charity fundraising executive at Northsound Cash for Kids. “We are extremely grateful to Apache North Sea for their huge contribution – we cannot thank them enough.”
Now, as the season begins to change, Cash for Kids has initiated their latest campaign, Mission Christmas. For many, Christmas morning is a special time – full of joy, excitement and fulfilled wishes. Many underprivileged children, especially in older age groups, do not have this experience. Cash for Kids’ goal is ‘Christmas for every child’, an appeal that ensures local children living in poverty have presents to open on Christmas morning. Apache decided to also support this mission, allocating additional funds to Cash for Kids to make sure the magic of the holidays for U.K. children would not be lost, regardless of socioeconomic status.
“We want to guarantee that children who are at risk of waking up to nothing on Christmas morning will have something to open,” said Douglas. “These young people will likely never forget the generosity of companies like Apache. We are grateful to be able to count on their contribution this year.”