Children's charity hit by cost of living crisis launches campaign

A children’s charity has launched a campaign to help meet rising demand caused by the cost of living crisis.

Pelican Parcels supports children in need aged 12 and under by supplying families with essential items such as beds, clothes and toiletries.

It has reported a 136 per cent increase in demand over three years, with 5,774 children and families receiving its help in 2023.

Baby items that are given to infants living in poverty (Image: Pelican Parcels)

In five years, the charity has helped more than 20,000 children, pregnant mothers and their families.

Pelican Parcels was founded in 2018 by Shelley and James Bennett who were compelled to share unwanted baby items with those who needed them.

Shelley said: “We want to ensure that more children have the essentials they need to give them the best start in life and to thrive.

“We hope we’re helping to lessen some of the pressure of the ‘heat or eat’ tough decisions they’re facing whilst supporting parents and carers with parcels made to feel like gifts.”

Co-founder of Pelican Parcels Shelley Bennett (Image: Pelican Parcels)

Its new #BeAPelicancampaign will involve a Crowdfunder with a target of £30,000.

People who make donations can receive rewards based on the amount such as a visit to the charity’s warehouse, vouchers, trips out and more.

There will also be fundraising events to help meet the goal.

Donations will assist the charity in clearing its waiting list, providing more parcels, expanding its volunteer programme and partnering with more schools in the area to reach more children.

Items used in parcels at the charity's warehouse (Image: Pelican Parcels)

Trustee at Pelican Parcels Carla Pannett said: “We're proud of our community and the heartfelt support we see for those across Brighton and Hove and Sussex, from the thousands of donations of preloved and new items, the volunteers who give their time or people who give their financial support.

“In five years we have given out 20,000 parcels but we need to do more and we need your help.

“We’re calling on our community and their friends, family and connections to help us with sharing our fundraising #BeAPelican campaign."