Blackpool actress Erin Shanager and Corrie legend Vicky Myers smash campaign target with 18k raised so far

A fundraiser launched by Blackpool actress Erin Shanager and Corrie legend Victoria Myers has raised an incredible £18,900 for those in poverty.

The two actresses first launched the ‘Secret Santa Hamper in 2020, and have continued to raise money ever since.

This year’s fundraiser had aimed to raise £16,000, but that target has now been smashed. Nearly £19,000 has been collected so far, and the campaign will run until Christmas.

Shanager and Myers said: “Secret Santa Hamper started in 2020, in a bid to help families in Greater Manchester who were experiencing food poverty during the festive period, by providing essential food hampers.

“Since then, with the support and generosity of the public, we have created and delivered over 3200 food hampers to children and their families during the Christmas holidays.

“Last year, we were once again inundated with requests from schools on behalf of some of their students who were in dire need of help. So this year, we aim to help even more families across the borough, by increasing the fundraising total to fulfil the aim of creating over 1100 essential food hampers.”

Erin Shanager grew up in Blackpool, studying drama at Blackpool & Fylde College before graduating from Salford University in 2005. She became friends with Vicky Myers over 10 years ago and the two have since collaborated on several fundraising campaigns.

“Every penny raised is used for purchasing food items. Storage, packing facility, website, boxes, stickers, tape etc, are all donated,” the pair added.

“Secret Santa Hamper is led by volunteers and is funded by the community, for the community. Your valued support is never taken for granted and we are incredibly grateful. Secret Santa wouldn't exist if it weren't for your kindness and generosity.”

More details about the campaign can be found here.