Local MP, Caroline Dinenage, has today welcomed the news that six local charities have received over £125,000 of support from the Coronavirus Community Support Fund.
More than 8,000 small and medium charities across England have been awarded a share of £200 million to help them continue their vital work with vulnerable people during the pandemic. Locally, Oarsome Chance, Harbour Cancer Support Centre, Rowner Community Trust, Infinity Digital International, CedarOak Support Trust and Fareham District Branch Parkinsons UK have been awarded £128,865.
Since its launch in May, the Coronavirus Community Support Fund has directed cash to organisations who provide key services and support vulnerable people. Distributed by The National Lottery Community Fund, it is part of the Government’s £750 million support package for charities announced earlier this year.
Commenting, Caroline said:
“Our charities and voluntary organisations have really stepped up to support local residents during the pandemic.
However, Covid 19 has had a massive impact on their fundraising and income and I am pleased that the Coronavirus Community Support Fund has been able to support some of the wonderful charities that we have in the Gosport Constituency.”
Culture Secretary, Oliver Dowden, said:
“Charities are there when we need them the most, and this emergency funding has kept their doors open during the biggest crisis for a generation.
Our £200 million Coronavirus Community Support Fund has reached thousands of worthy causes in communities across the country, ensuring they can be there for millions of vulnerable people and families.”
Dawn Austwick, CEO at The National Lottery Community Fund, said:
“Communities and charities across the country have responded magnificently to the Covid crisis and those who have benefited from the CCSF funding that we have distributed encapsulate the generosity, spirit and expert knowledge that we have all seen in our local neighbourhoods.
From the community cafes that have turned into food distribution hubs, to the counsellors and peer mentors who have moved their services online, to those offering advice and support to people struggling with debt or dealing with grief: they have all inspired and moved us in equal measure.
We will continue to support communities, thanks to money raised by National Lottery players to support as much of this vital work going forward as we can.”
Caroline is hosting an event with The National Lottery Community Fund for local community organisations and charities to find out what funding is available to them. The free event takes place on Friday 20 November at 10-11am and organisations can sign up here.