Torch card lights up charity giving

A North East fintech platform has launched a debit card designed to turn everyday spending into a new source of funding for local charities.

Torch has unveiled its new card with Red Sky Foundation becoming the first charity to sign up to the platform.

When customers use the debit card, merchants pay a transaction fee in the same way as with other cards, with half of Torch’s earnings from everyday spending donated to a charity chosen by the customer.

The model comes at no additional cost to users or charities, with donations generated through purchases ranging from a morning coffee and meals out to the weekly shop.

Bosses say the approach is designed to create a sustainable, long-term funding stream for non-profit organisations while allowing supporters to contribute through their usual spending.

The launch comes as charities continue to explore new ways of maintaining income without putting additional financial pressure on supporters.

Ozan Demir, founder of Torch, said: “Bringing Torch Card to life is a major milestone for us, and having Red Sky Foundation as our very first charity partner makes it even more meaningful. 

“Red Sky does vital, life-changing work supporting cardiac patients and their families across the North East, and we are incredibly proud to stand behind their mission.

“Through our partnership, every Torch Card purchase can help support this important work, turning everyday spending into a force for good. 

“We hope this is just the beginning, and that other fantastic charities across the North East will join us in creating lasting, positive impact through Torch Card.”

Sergio Petrucci, founder of Red Sky Foundation, which supports cardiac care across the North East and beyond,added: “The idea behind Torch, to exist for the good of charities, is both inspiring and refreshing, and we are thrilled to be working with them at such an early stage in their exciting journey. 

“As a small charity, Red Sky Foundation are always looking for new ways to generate income, to keep up the life-saving work that we do. 

“It’s important that we are able to identify new funding sources, so we are not continuously asking the same supporters for donations. 

“Partnering with Torch cards opens the door to a fantastic new funding stream.  

“Our supporters can sign up and begin generating money for Red Sky Foundation with no cost and very little effort, with the knowledge that every purchase made using their Torch card supports their favourite charity.”

Supporters can sign up for their Torch card here and select Red Sky Foundation as their chosen charity. 

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