Newcastle TV star sets up GoFundMe to support families affected by Benwell explosion
Kieran Chapman, who is currently appearing on Married at First Sight UK, has raised over £7,300 already, with a goal of £50,000
by Owen Younger · ChronicleLiveA Newcastle-based TV star has set up a GoFundMe to support the families who have been affected by the Benwell explosion. Kieran Chapman, who is currently appearing on Married at First Sight UK, has raised over £7,300 already, with a goal of £50,000.
This fundraising is alongside the work being done by Merton Lodge community centre, which has been taking donations throughout the day, after manager Emma Skillen decided to provide shelter for around 50 families who have been evacuated.
The explosion in South Benwell took place at around 12.45am, with several flats reduced to rubble and a huge emergency response in the area, which continued throughout Wednesday.
A seven-year-old boy sadly died at the scene and three adults and a child have been taken to hospital. Searches are ongoing in the area to ensure everyone is accounted for.
On hearing about the explosion this morning, Kieran said: "I received a message about what had happened this morning and my jaw just dropped. I put myself in the position of the family who lost their son and those people who have lost their homes, and I knew I needed to do whatever I could to help.
"I know that I have a platform which can be used for good in this sort of situation. I have 100,000 followers on TikTok, and even if everyone donated just a pound, I know we can help to support the people in need.
"It's an awful situation and my heart is breaking for all of the families involved. I think that the West End is a real community, and I just want to do my bit and be part of the community coming together in this way."
To donate to Kieran's appeal and to help support the families in need, visit his GoFundMe page here.
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