Neptune Energy is to donate half-a-million-pounds to a charity appeal, aiming to help thousands of children living in poverty in London this winter.
And the North Sea operator is also appealing to others in the capital to sign up and help those most in need in the run-up to Christmas.
Employees from Neptune, which has its global headquarters in London, will give up their own time to volunteer on projects supported by The Childhood Trust.
That is alongside the £500,000 donation to the child poverty charity’s Christmas appeal.
The trust’s campaign aims to help an estimated 50,000 vulnerable children by providing support including hot meals and warm clothes.
Funds raised will also help provide access to mental health support and mentoring, as well as supporting after school clubs and opportunities for children to meet and play with others their age.
Neptune’s chief executive, Pete Jones, said he hopes the company’s support for the charity would spur others to back the campaign.
He said: “We’re proud to be working with The Childhood Trust and are encouraging others to support the appeal.
“Our colleagues will also volunteer and work hand-in-hand with the Trust’s teams. If we – and those who join the appeal – give our time as well, we will help more children. With Christmas just around the corner, what could be more important than that?”
Laurence Guinness, chief executive of The Childhood Trust, said: “Children living in poverty in London are being hit the hardest by the cost-of-living crisis with many experiencing hunger, cold, anxiety and loneliness.
“Neptune Energy’s generous support for our appeal means tens of thousands of vulnerable children will receive the practical and emotional support they need to thrive, despite the challenges they face. But we can help many more children struggling this winter if other companies step in and throw their weight behind the appeal.”