Colleagues at Sunderland-based renewable energy developer OnPath Energy have successfully concluded a year of dedicated fundraising and volunteering, resulting in a generous donation of £4,313 to the Sunderland Community Soup Kitchen. Throughout 2025, the team engaged in a series of creative initiatives to raise funds, including organising raffles, sweepstakes, and selling knitted chicks during the Easter period.
Fundraising Efforts and Company Support
The collective efforts of the OnPath Energy team raised an impressive £2,313 through these activities. Demonstrating a strong commitment to community support, the company matched every £1,000 raised, effectively doubling the impact and bringing the total donation to £4,313. This matching scheme highlights the firm's proactive approach to corporate social responsibility and its dedication to enhancing local welfare in Sunderland.
Volunteering and In-Kind Contributions
Beyond financial contributions, eleven volunteers from OnPath Energy actively participated in hands-on support at the Soup Kitchen. They spent time serving meals and assisting service users, gaining firsthand insight into the charity's vital operations. Additionally, the team donated over 130kg of food and collected clothing items for the charity's Funky G vintage store, further bolstering the organisation's resources.
Future Plans and Ongoing Commitment
Plans are already in motion for continued fundraising efforts in 2026, with ambitious challenges such as the Three Peaks and Hadrian's Wall walks on the agenda. This forward-looking approach underscores OnPath Energy's long-term commitment to supporting the Sunderland community and addressing local needs through sustained engagement.
Impact and Testimonials
Katie Walvin, a volunteer from OnPath Energy, shared her experience, stating: "Spending time in the kitchen showed us the real impact of the Soup Kitchen's work. We're proud to support them financially and hands-on." This sentiment reflects the meaningful connection forged between the corporate team and the charity.
Ashleigh Richardson, revenue and development officer at the Soup Kitchen, expressed gratitude, adding: "We are incredibly grateful to OnPath Energy for their generosity, time, and commitment. Their continued support will help us reach even more people in need across Sunderland."
About Sunderland Community Soup Kitchen
Founded in 2019, Sunderland Community Soup Kitchen provides essential services, including hot meals for anyone in need, alongside educational and life skills courses. The organisation relies entirely on local support and volunteers to operate, making contributions like those from OnPath Energy crucial to its sustainability and ability to serve the community effectively.
