‘We’re incredibly proud to support organisations making a real difference’
The charity partners at the Sewell on the go forecourt South Cave.(Image: Sewell Group)
An East Yorkshire retailer says “community is at the heart of everything we do” after donating £10,000 to support five local community organisations. Sewell On The Go – the Hull convenience store operator with 12 stores across Hull and East Yorkshire – made the donations through Co-op Wholesale’s Making a Difference Locally (MADL) charity and its Heart of the Community Funding Giveaway.
The forecourt retailer, which is part of the wider Sewell Group, recently started a new partnership with Co-op Wholesale, which supplies the firm’s food products to all its stores. Sewell On The Go selected a group of charities whose work supports some of the region’s most vulnerable people, including families affected by loss, children lacking access to opportunities, individuals experiencing homelessness, and seafaring families in crisis.
Patrick Sewell, managing director of Sewell On The Go, said: “We are a local family business, and community is at the heart of everything we do. We’re incredibly proud to support organisations making a real difference in the lives of people across Hull and East Yorkshire.”
The five charities which each received £2,000 are Chasing Rainbows Charity, Ladled With Love, Hull & East Yorkshire Children’s University, Sailors’ Children’s Society and Paul 4 Brain Recovery. They all told of the difference the donation has made to their coffers. Chasing Rainbows, based in Hull and East Riding, offers vital support for those experiencing pregnancy and baby loss.
Samantha Catan, founder and CEO, said: “Chasing Rainbows was created from my own lived experience after losing five babies. Pregnancy and baby loss is deeply isolating, and after finding little to no support, I committed myself to making sure others never feel alone. This donation has helped us furnish our dedicated support space, opening in early 2026 – the first baby‑loss support hub in the area. It will be a safe, welcoming environment where bereaved parents can receive emotional support, attend groups, and connect with others who understand their journey.”
Ladled With Love, based in Hull, aims to help those in need, the vulnerable, and the homeless community in the city. Karl Skerrett, co‑founder, said: “We’re a volunteer‑run street kitchen supporting Hull’s homeless, vulnerable, and struggling families with hot meals, drinks, and surplus food.
“As we receive no formal funding, providing enough meals can be a challenge. This support has enabled us to deliver our free Christmas Day event at Hull Minster, offering a full Christmas dinner and gifts to anyone who is alone or struggling this year.”
Sarah Brodie, head of development at Hull & East Yorkshire Children’s University, said: “We work with children who may never travel more than a mile from home, giving them life‑changing experiences that build confidence and aspiration. Rising transport costs mean these opportunities are harder to deliver.
“The donation supported our Doorstep Elves campaign, ensuring families received festive gifts and everything they needed for a Christmas meal. For many, it made the difference between going without and feeling seen and supported.”
The Sailors’ Children’s Society has supported seafaring families in crisis since 1821, providing financial, emotional, and practical help. A spokesperson for the charity said: “Many of the families we support face bereavement, trauma, financial hardship, or long‑term separation.
“Donations like this ensure children affected by loss or instability receive the essentials they need – food, heating, clothing – and the emotional support to feel safe and secure. This funding covers a year of support grants for three children in Hull and the East Riding, offering stability during an incredibly difficult time.”
Meanwhile, the Paul For Brain Recovery charity, also in Hull, is a free community service that provides support, guidance and education to individuals and families affected by acquired brain injury.
Leigh North, operations and finance manager, added: “This funding will enable us to deliver monthly music therapy sessions. Music has a remarkable power to heal, helping the brain recover, improving memory and focus, and supporting speech and movement. But its impact goes even deeper as it offers a safe, creative space for people to express emotions, lift their spirits, and find comfort during a difficult journey. With your support, we can bring hope, joy, and tangible recovery to those striving to reclaim their lives after brain injury.”