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USF pledges support to Devizes Opendoors

April 26, 2024

The upcoming Urchfont Scarecrow Festival, taking place from May 4 to 6, will support Devizes Opendoors along with its regular beneficiaries such as Wiltshire Air Ambulance and local good causes.

In past years, the festival has raised tens of thousands of pounds for regional charity Wiltshire Air Ambulance and over £200,000 for Parish organisations and projects.

Devizes Opendoors was chosen by the festival committee for its proximity to Urchfont and its deep understanding of the widespread impact of the cost of living crisis on individuals. The organisation provides crucial assistance to community members facing or experiencing homelessness, particularly those who are marginalised and vulnerable.

“It's brilliant to be able to partner with Devizes Opendoors in challenging financial times for so many. It’s such a wonderful charity and adding them to our beneficiaries is a fantastic way to celebrate the festival’s silver anniversary.”

Steve Osborne, USFCC Chair

“We are incredibly grateful and proud to have been chosen by the Urchfont Scarecrow Festival, a highlight of the year for families across Wiltshire.” said Karin Cardiff, Chair of Devizes Opendoors.

"As a small local charity, we are entirely reliant on donations to provide our vital services for local vulnerable adults who are either homeless or at risk of homelessness. In 2023 we had 250 guests, served nearly 4,000 meals, and contacted agencies 674 times, and without donations like these we would no longer be able to keep the doors open.”

Karin Cardiff, Chair of Devizes Opendoors.

Steve Osborne, Chair of Urchfont Scarecrow Festival Charity, said “It's brilliant to be able to partner with Devizes Opendoors in challenging financial times for so many. It’s such a wonderful charity and adding them to our beneficiaries is a fantastic way to celebrate the festival’s silver anniversary.”