Atherstone support service benefits from £1,500 Co-op community fund

An Atherstone-based support service has benefited from a cash donation from the Central England Co-op which has handed out nearly £15,000 to 15 charities and good causes in the region.

As part of its revamped Community Dividend Fund which is aimed at providing quick funding boosts to help those impacted by the Coronavirus outbreak, Time Out Support Services in Atherstone has received £1,500.

Time Out works with older people and those suffering from isolation by paying for clothing, food and hosting regular companionship calls.

Normally, grants from the fund are handed out four times a year to a wide range of organisations but, during the coming months, it has been decided to hand grants out on a monthly basis to support those suffering financial hardship due to the pandemic and others looking to step in to help those affected.

Julie Goodman of Time Out Support Services said: "Time Out would like to say a massive thank you to the Central England Co-op Community Dividend Fund for our recent grant. We will use this funding to continue our community food scheme for residents in Baddesley Ensor and Grendon.

"This scheme consists of delivery of a bag of fresh fruit and vegetables and other essential items free of charge to vulnerable residents. This grant will make a really positive difference to people living in our rural communities.

"The scheme has been a huge success so far and provides valuable contact for each person receiving a bag as we offer delivery and it also supports both their physical and mental wellbeing."

Organisations in Leicester, Nuneaton, Dudley, Birmingham, Lowestoft, King's Lynn, Godmanchester, Reepham, Derwent, Derby and Huddersfield have also benefitted from grants.

All applicants, regardless of their success, are all given Co-op vouchers to help support their great work in the community. Therefore, a total of 34 applicants shared just over £15,000 when taking into account full grants and vouchers awarded.

Jim Watts, Society Secretary, said: "In response to the current crisis, we made some changes to our Community Dividend Fund scheme to provide immediate financial support for local good causes, community groups and charities who are responding to some of the most worrying impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic.

"Community Dividend Fund grants showcase how by being a member and shopping at your local Central England Co-op store allows us as a Society to continue to invest and fund vital projects in the area – especially during uncertain times like these.

"We are delighted to have been able to support these amazing causes and help them make a difference in our communities."

To apply, members will need: name, address, membership number, organisation type, organisation bank account or constitution and to explain what the group does, how the grant will be spent and the specific impact it will have related to Covid-19.

People can find out the full criteria and how to apply for funding by visiting the Co-op website.