2023: Year of Philanthropy – Celebrities Step Up for Humanitarian Causes

In a year marked by significant philanthropic gestures, sports, entertainment, and business luminaries have stepped forward to contribute to various humanitarian causes. Their actions have not only eased burdens but also inspired many to follow suit.

Footballers Championing Causes

English footballer Jack Grealish made a notable contribution of £5,000 to a fundraiser supporting Dylan Lamb, a young man battling acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. Despite Lamb’s unfortunate demise, the amassed funds exceeding £170,000 will lay the foundation for The Dylan Lamb Foundation, a beacon of hope for others in similar situations.

Another English footballer, James Maddison, organized a charity golf day benefitting Sophie’s Sparkle Fund. The fund commemorates young osteosarcoma victim, Sophie Taylor. The event, attended by notable personalities like John Terry and Michael McIntyre, successfully raised over £50,000.

Actors and Ex-Footballers Extending Support

Actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, owners of Wrexham FC, came to the aid of a local business, Wrexham Trainer Revival, following a break-in. Their donation of £3,500 ensured the business’s continued operation.

Gary Lineker, a broadcaster and former footballer, lent his support to those affected by the cost-of-living crisis. This included a donation to Carly Burd, who suffered vandalism damage to her allotment.

Celebrities Rallying for Aid

Actor Hugh Grant extended his support to Depher CIC, a social enterprise providing free plumbing and heating services to those living in fuel poverty. Similarly, Duncan Bannatyne donated £20,000 to a fundraiser initiated by Jack Rigby, the son of the late soldier Lee Rigby.

Several actors from the series Sex Education, namely Aimee Wood, Connor Swindells, and Asa Butterfield, joined the philanthropic cause by donating to various fundraisers. One such cause was a fundraiser for Chinenyenwa Ezeudu’s mother, diagnosed with cancer. Former UFC fighter Stevie Ray also received support for his daughter’s medical treatment from members of the UFC community.

Other personalities, including Martin Lewis, Stephen Bartlett, Lily Allen, Self Esteem, and Mrs. Hinch, have made charitable donations throughout the year, uplifting many lives.