L to R Stuart Nuttall, Roelie Newman, Peter Lee (DPA), Cathie Siegal, Wendy Hilton (DPA), Trudy Braithwaite, Marian Newman Picture: Trudy Braithwaite

Year-long fundraising efforts help combat poverty in Dorchester

Tait ap EllisJanuary 14, 20250 Comment0

MARTINSTOWN Circle Suppers recently handed over a cheque for £7,350 to fight poverty in Dorchester.

The group, which has just celebrated 10 years of fundraising, held 18 supper events throughout 2024, raising £1,800 which will now support those in need across the DT1 and DT2 postcode areas.

This, coupled with the other activities such as the annual village fete, contributed a further £5,000, which was handed to Dorchester Poverty Action (DPA).

The charity gives grants to individuals and families in need and was set up in 1990 by Churches Together in Dorchester.

Martinstown Circle Suppers presented a cheque to DPA at the start of January.

DPA Chair Wendy Hilton said: “We are very grateful to Martinstown Circle Suppers for their generosity and dedication.

“Their support enables us to continue helping those in need during these challenging times.”

In 2024, DPA issued £61,000 to those in financial need, and with the reduction of the fuel allowance from 7.6 million to an estimated 1.3 million households in 2025, the demand for assistance is expected to rise significantly.

This year marks the 10th anniversary of Martinstown Circle Suppers, a group that has raised over £37,000 for Dorset charities since its inception.

For 2025, the group will be raising funds for Mosaic, a charity supporting locally bereaved children and young people.

Mosaic chair of trustees, Jane Hinnrichs said: “One in 30 children locally will experience the bereavement of a loved one.

“Last year, we supported over 400 children across Dorset, offering counselling, events and activities and day camps to help them navigate their grief.”

Looking ahead, Circle Suppers Chair Cathie Seigal said: “Our 2025 programme is packed with events to bring the community together and continue supporting vital local causes.

“We are proud to dedicate our efforts this year to Mosaic and their invaluable work with bereaved children, young adults and their families.”