Charities boosted by Mayoral support

Special Lioness and Hug in a Bag have each been boosted by £6,106.

Every year the Mayor of Sunderland chooses charities that can be helped through events and occasions in the civic year.

The Mayor of Sunderland in the civic year 2021 was Councillor Harry Trueman and Consort was his wife Councillor Dorothy Trueman. This year Mrs Trueman is the Deputy Mayor and is due to become Mayor next year in 2023 with Mr Trueman as Consort.

Cllr Trueman, a member for the Washington West ward and a former Deputy Leader of the council, said: "Last year wasn't the most straight-forward of mayoral years because of Covid. Nonetheless, the work of charities continued in what were some difficult circumstances.

"Thankfully, we were still able to assist, help and promote our chosen charities. Both myself and Dorothy are very grateful for everybody that helped with either financial donations or with their time. Thanks again to all."

Hug in a Bag is a breast cancer charity which helps people with a goody bag to help make treatment more bearable. Each bag costs around £65 to make and contains items such as miniature toiletries for short hospital stays, a cushion to place under their arm during chemotherapy, and other useful comforts such as head scarfs.

Emma Wright, chair of Hug in a Bag, said: "We cannot express how grateful we are for the fundraising they have done for us and how much of a boost this donation will make to us, it means so much to us and we are all incredibly grateful."

The Special Lioness is a charity formed by Claire Stewart and Amy Howes who both have children with life limiting conditions. It helps to support families with severely disabled children through support groups, play groups, and arranging special outings and trips, such as trips out on a fully adapted catamaran.

Amy said: "We are extremely grateful for the opportunity of working with the Mayor and Mayoress of Sunderland over the past year. The opportunity has enabled us to reach more families by spreading much needed awareness of the work we do and opening up our events to so many more families."

In May, Councillor Alison Smith was appointed Mayor of Sunderland for this civic year and her chosen charities are Downhill Community Pond and Garden, Friends of Bunnyhill and Hope 4 All.