‘This time of year can be a challenge for so many’: Beattie Foundation launches ‘Tons of Help for Brum’ - £100 Christmas grants to help those in need through the festive season
The Beattie Foundation says: ‘Knowing that someone is fighting your corner is half the battle won’
As Christmas approaches, families across Birmingham are grappling with increasing financial challenges, stemming from the ongoing cost of living crisis.
In response to this urgent need, The Jack And Ada Beattie Foundation (beattiefoundation.com) is launching TONS OF CHRISTMAS HELP, a programme designed to provide £100 crisis grants for those in most need in Birmingham.
The Foundation was set up by Birmingham-born filmmaker and ad executive Trevor Beattie, in memory of his parents.
Tons of Help is dedicated to easing the burdens of the holiday season, by delivering vital support to those facing hardship.
It embodies the Foundation’s mission statement: ‘Knowing that someone is fighting your corner is half the battle won.’
“We’re aware that this time of year can be a challenge for so many people’ says Trevor Beattie.
“Tons of Help is a very simple idea which will offer a bit of hope: One hundred pounds, a ton in the hand. No judgement. No repayments required. It may not change your life. But it might just save your Christmas. And at least it will remind Brummies in need that someone out there cares.”
Tons of Help comes at a critical time, with child poverty at a record high and more and more families struggling to make ends meet.
The programme seeks to help individuals experiencing acute financial distress, with eligibility criteria stipulating that beneficiaries must reside in Birmingham.
Beattie is asking food banks, refuges and schools across Birmingham to share news of Tons of Help with their communities, ensuring that assistance reaches those most in need.
He also invites people to donate to Tons fund in units of £100.
“I will be donating a very large sum of money which will be divided up into £100 grants and handed out’ says Beattie. “Anyone who wishes to kindly contribute to the pot will be welcomed with open arms. And I’m sure Jack and Ada will also put in a good word for you Up There for doing so!”
Applications must be submitted by a safeguarding referee, such as a social, healthcare, educational or legal professional familiar with the beneficiary’s situation. To streamline the application process, Tons of Help encourages referees to submit applications on behalf of beneficiaries. Given the limited funding available, grants will be awarded based on assessed need.
Applications will open on Friday 31st October 2025 and close on Friday 23rd January 2026. For more information about Tons of Help, visit www.tonsofhelp.com
