Guess who just popped by a Welsh village and made a HUGE impact? 🎉 AJ Odudu, former Strictly and Big Brother host, surprised the community of Tonyrefail with a life-changing surprise at Taff-Ely Foodbank! The Bolton-born star, now a National Lottery Ambassador, revealed a whopping £134,745 funding boost from the National Lottery Community Fund. 🙌
This generous support will help Taff-Ely Foodbank continue their incredible work, providing emergency food and launching a new baby provision service. By easing the load on local families, they’re making a crucial difference. AJ shared, “Growing up, I understood the struggle of making ends meet. No one should face that alone. It’s inspiring to see the positive change Taff-Ely Foodbank brings to people’s lives, all thanks to National Lottery players!” 💪
AJ’s visit coincided with Taff-Ely’s Advice and Information Day, a fantastic event with 12 partner agencies like Citizen’s Advice offering holistic support to residents. The aim? To provide assistance well before food bank services are needed. 🌟
Andrew Butcher, CEO of Taff-Ely, expressed their excitement, “Hosting AJ Odudu to announce this vital funding was an honour. This support allows us to keep our doors open, providing not just food but connection, advice, and community care.”
David Knott, CEO of The National Lottery Community Fund added, “Taff-Ely Foodbank is the heart of their community. We’re thrilled to award them additional funding to continue their remarkable service.”
This initiative is part of the National Lottery’s ‘Because of You’ campaign, showcasing transformative UK projects as they gear up for a milestone 31st birthday celebration. 🎂
Thanks to National Lottery players, over £3 million is dedicated daily to UK communities, tackling urgent issues and building a fairer future. Here’s to more stories of hope and support! 🥳✨ #CommunityHeroes #NationalLottery #StrictlySurprise