Northamptonshire Community Foundation has awarded £556,465.50 to hundreds of community projects across Northamptonshire supporting the most vulnerable residents and families in local communities during the COVID-19 crisis.
The Coronavirus Response and Recovery Fund is being delivered in partnership with Northamptonshire Emergencies Trust and can continue giving out funds due to the generosity of donors and the general public in Northamptonshire.
The funds are supporting thousands of residents who have been self-isolating or shielding and to support individuals and families on a low income and those impacted by job loss.
To date, the appeal has raised £658,401 and the funds have already reached 52,889 residents supported by 6,314 volunteers locally.
Rachel McGrath, Deputy CEO of Northamptonshire Community Foundation, said: “The galvanised response from local community groups and charities to support vulnerable residents and families during this public health crisis has been absolutely amazing. Our staff team and trustees have been inspired by the array of projects and their local reach ensuring no one is left struggling on their own. We thank our generous donors for enabling us to support this crucial civil society response to the pandemic. The demand continues for these support services on the ground and our appeal will continue so that we can keep helping people emerge safely from lockdown and help rebuild local lives. If anyone wishes to find out more about our appeal and how they can help, please get in touch.”
Projects have covered the county and have included food aid, shopping services, community transport, care packages, telephone befriending services, online activities and educational support, counselling services, employability support, wellbeing advice and information.
Recently funded projects include:
Food for Thought Daventry providing food aid and support to families on a low income.
Café Track in Northampton providing virtual mental health support for vulnerable clients.
Caring and Sharing Trust in South Northamptonshire providing virtual support services, activities and transport for people with learning disabilities.
United African Association Northamptonshire in Northampton providing food aid and deliveries to vulnerable residents.
Anne Wankiiri, of the United African Association, said: “We are so thankful to Northamptonshire Community Foundation. The grant has enabled us to help so many people who were genuinely in need of support.”
