The Manchester Evening News has launched a fund to help residents of Greater Manchester hit by the coronavirus outbreak.

The campaign was jointly launched with mayor Andy Burnham on today’s MEN front page highlighting the COVAID appeal to ‘make a real difference’ to the lives of the vulnerable.

The fundraiser addresses members of the city’s community – from the elderly to homeless families living in hostels – who have been left struggling to access support and food parcels while public services are under strain from the pandemic.

The mayor of Greater Manchester’s charity will manage the funds to help existing charities and voluntary schemes buy basic items, food and toiletries for those in need. 

Darren Thwaites, editor-in-chief of the Manchester Evening News said: “Most people have suffered in some way through this terrible crisis but the impact on our most vulnerable has been harrowing.

“We’ve always been a city that stands together to help people less fortunate in their time of need. This is one such time and we know people will do all they can to help.”

Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham, told MEN: “My sincere thanks to the Manchester Evening News for backing the mayor’s charity at such a critical moment for Greater Manchester.

“This time is tough for everyone but particularly for the most vulnerable in our community.

“This is where the mayor’s charity comes in. Any donations to the charity will help pay for the basics that people need, such as frequent packages of food and toiletries. So your donations – and the MEN’s support for this campaign – could make a huge difference.

“I would encourage everyone who can donate to the mayor’s charity to do so and help turn a life around.”

To find out more and donate – click here.