Young Oasis, the support service for children and teenagers affected by parental drug or alcohol misuse in Lincolnshire, has launched its Christmas fundraising campaign.
Throughout December, the team at Lincolnshire Action Trust is asking people to make a donation in support of its Young Oasis programme via text using the charity's dedicated JustGiving number.
Statutory funding for Young Oasis, which offers support, guidance and encouragement to the children of substance misusers, ceased in June this year when it was revealed that the Lincolnshire County Council's Carers Service provision would no longer support people under 18 years old.
Alison Goddard, CEO of Lincolnshire Action Trust, said: "This festive season we're asking our supporters to consider donating to our Young Oasis campaign instead of sending Christmas cards or presents. In return we'll share an image that they can use on social media to let people know.
"The donation of even a few pounds can have a huge impact on the lives of those children within our communities who are dealing with very difficult situations, especially at Christmas time."
A donation of £10 will pay for a 'worry eater' toy to help a young child discuss and deal with their concerns, while £15 will cover the cost of a day out.
A £20 donation will pay for a memory box for a child to remember a parent or guardian lost through substance misuse and £30 will pay for a one-to-one support session with a Young Oasis caseworker.
Young Oasis, which was launched in 2000, has provided support to more than 100 young people aged 5 to 18 in the last 12 months alone.
Alison added: "For most families, Christmas is a magical time, but for children and young people dealing with parents who misuse substances, it can be a time of acute uncertainty and anguish.
"Following the cuts to funding we're relying on people to dig deep this festive period and help us support children in their neighbourhood who need help now and in the coming years."
To donate to the Young Oasis project, please text YOAS01 and the amount you would like to donate, to 70070 (Example 'YOAS01 £10').
Every penny of your donation (including Gift Aid) will go to the charity, but you may be charged for your text message, please refer to your network operator's standard rates.
Thank you for your support
