Nestlé donate £100,000 to York’s flood appeal

This money from Nestlé means the fund, which was only launched on Tuesday, has now collected £137,000.

It aims to help York residents affected by the flooding to get back on their feet. 

The flooding hit hundreds of homes in the city along the Ouse and the Foss and has led to the closure of tourist attractions including the Jorvik Viking Centre.

Funds will now be used to provide essential household items, such as carpets and washing machines, and the costs of living in temporary accommodation or paying for extra heating.

Dame Fiona Kendrick, chairman and chief executive of Nestlé UK said: “As one of York’s biggest employers it has been very concerning to see the effect of these floods on the local community.

“We want to join those who have rallied round to support the relief effort, including many of our employees, and we have already been able to provide food, drink and other supplies. We now hope this £100,000 donation will help the York Flood Appeal provide vital support to those in need at such a difficult time.”

The York Disaster Fund – a local charity established in 2000 in response to the floods that year - set up the York Flood Appeal. The Two Ridings Community Foundation, the local community foundation for York, North and East Yorkshire is hosting the appeal on behalf of the charity.

York City Council’s chief executive Steve Stewart said: “We’ve been overwhelmed by the response from both businesses and members of the public who have offered their time, donations and financial assistance to give relief to the people directly affected and the communities around them. We thank Nestlé for this generous donation, which will undoubtedly go a long way to helping York residents get back on their feet.” 

Lord Mayor of York, Coun Sonja Crisp, who is on the board for the York Disaster Fund: said: “The boost to the York Flood Appeal from Nestlé is fantastic news. We have over 600 families affected by the floods in York and the fund will make a huge difference to the help we can provide.”

Anyone needing to apply to the fund should call the council on 01904 551550. Businesses or individuals who wish to donate should contact Jan Garrill, of Two Ridings Community Foundation or go online at www.trcf.org.uk