After The Duke of Cambridge launched a fundraising appeal for the National Emergencies Trust (NET) last week, the organisation has raised over £11 million to help those in need.
Prince William released his video last week, not only asking for donations to help the most vulnerable in society at this time, but thanking those working to help others, including NHS staff and scientists.
“It will ensure that support reaches those across the UK who need it most, as quickly and efficiently as possible,” the future King said. “And it will help to ensure that all our efforts to overcome this challenge are channelled in the best possible way.”
The National Emergencies Trust acts as a disaster relief fund for the UK, to help in times of need; it was loosely modelled on the Disasters Emergency Committee, which coordinates financial aid efforts for humanitarian disasters abroad. As of lunchtime today, there have been more than 9500 cases of Covid-19 in Britain, and 465 deaths.
The @NatEmergTrust has launched an appeal to raise funds to help local charities support individuals suffering hardship as a result of the coronavirus outbreak.
Find out more ?https://t.co/aWvQCNUvdD pic.twitter.com/YaftXRtiWW
— Kensington Palace (@KensingtonRoyal) March 18, 2020
Some Premier League footballers also leant their names to the cause, launching #FootballUnited, in order to raise money for local communities during the Covid-19 pandemic, hoping to raise £100,000 for the fund. Stars involved include Arsenal’s Hector Bellerin and Manchester United’s Aaron Wan-Bissakahose.
Yesterday, the Trust announced that it was distributing its first financial support packages, totalling nearly £2.5million. The money will be distributed to organisations – which include food banks, elderly care and disability assistance organisations, as well as small businesses – through UK Community Foundations.
National Emergencies Trust chairman, Lord Dannatt – who used to be the Chief Constable at the Tower of London – said: “We are delighted that there is growing support for the Trust and that we have been able to start getting money out to organisations who can help people within a week of launching.
“But we need much more. That’s why we are calling on everyone, even at this unsettling time to dig deep and make a contribution.
“That generosity will ensure that we get through this unprecedented time with our most vulnerable communities cared for and supported.”
You can learn more about the NET’s work, and donate, here.
