Rushden charity in second wave of funding to support the most vulnerable

A Rushden charity is among the groups to secure money in the second wave of funding from the Coronavirus Response and Recovery Fund set up by Northamptonshire Community Foundation.

Funding is available to local charities and community groups supporting local people hit by the social and economic impact of the virus.

Funding will now focus on two areas.

There will be crisis response grants, which are grants of up to £3,000 available to groups helping vulnerable people affected by the Coronavirus outbreak.

Strategic response grants will be grants of between £10,000 - £20,000 to strategically support community action to help vulnerable people affected by the outbreak.

Groups must evidence how they are working collaboratively with other organisations to address an urgent need with a co-ordinated response.

Partnership applications are especially welcome, with a lead organisation applying.

Victoria Miles DL, CEO of Northamptonshire Community Foundation, said: “I am delighted to announce this second tranche of funding which is vital for ongoing support to the voluntary

and community sector at this critical time.

"We are focusing our efforts in raising awareness and encouraging further donations so that we can fund front-line services who can continue to support those who are the most vulnerable and at risk during this crisis.

The Coronavirus Response and Recovery Fund was established by Northamptonshire Community Foundation to support projects that desperately need to provide help and care for older and vulnerable people hit by the social and economic impact of the Coronavirus.

Donations are targeted in the form of grants at projects that support local people facing a range of social issues including social isolation, food poverty and poor mental health.

A total of £131,526.87 has been awarded to 48 projects to date.

Funded groups have included SERVE Rushden, who are helping older people and those with disabilities with grocery shopping and prescription collections.

Other groups to benefit include Care and Repair Northamptonshire, who will be providing essential services, including heating repairs, to isolated older people and the Northampton Saints Foundation, who will be providing educational resources and support to children with additional needs.

The fund is made possible through partnerships with the National Emergencies Trust, supporters, the general public and a range of donors.

For more information and to apply, please visit: http://www.ncf.uk.com/grants/grant-finder/coronavirus-response-and-recovery-fund.

Please note that individuals and businesses cannot apply and the fund cannot be used to support personal needs on an individual basis.