Yes.
It was set up in 1957 (although it had a different name then). It's now called the European Union and the cost to the UK for membership to this not-so-exclusive club is about �60bn annually. About �6bn is in the form of direct contributions.
I�m sure a few bob could be found from that sum to help those in Italy, but it may mean a few French farmers going short.
I already contribute quite a bit to the fund via various taxes, so shall not be contributing to any informal collections that are made.