SOFEA youth charity gets financial boost from Cadbury

SOFEA, based in Didcot, has received a £5,000 donation from The Cadbury Foundation through Mondelēz International’s Your Charity, Your Choice programme.

The charity helps young people aged 14 to 24 who are outside mainstream education by offering practical training, work experience, and personal development opportunities.

The grant was awarded following a nomination by Hannah Gardner, head of marketing and category development at Mondelēz International, receiving support from colleagues at the nearby Mondelēz International site in Uxbridge.

Ms Gardner said: “SOFEA does so much fantastic work helping young people aged 14-24 build their confidence, leadership and interpersonal skills, and I know this generous grant will have an incredibly positive impact.

“I’m delighted that my nomination was supported by my colleagues, and to know that the donation will help the charity continue to deliver its fantastic services supporting young people.”

SOFEA combines education with hands-on work experience.

It aims to improve employability and raise aspirations among young people who may face barriers to traditional education.

James Plunket, director of fundraising at SOFEA, said: “We are extremely grateful to Hannah Gardner for nominating us and to The Cadbury Foundation for this significant donation, which will help our young people gain practical skills and valuable work experience.

“At SOFEA, we believe all young people outside of mainstream education deserve opportunities to grow and succeed and, thanks to this grant, we can keep making that possible.”

The Cadbury Foundation was established in honour of company founders George and Richard Cadbury, who were known for their commitment to social responsibility.

Last year marked the 90th anniversary of the foundation.

More than £1 million has been donated since the Your Charity Your Choice scheme began.

The scheme allows Mondelēz International employees in the UK and Ireland to nominate charities close to their hearts for funding.

Kelly Farrell, community affairs manager at Mondelēz International, said: “Our ‘Your Charity Your Choice’ scheme was set up to support important causes and charities close to our employees’ hearts, and we’re incredibly proud that for 14 years, the programme has done exactly that.

“We’re thrilled that £90,000 was donated last year, as The Cadbury Foundation celebrated its 90th anniversary, and we’re delighted that, with the foundation’s support, SOFEA can continue delivering its services supporting the community, helping young people grow and develop their skills.”