We manage charitable funds donated by local individuals, families, businesses and trusts, building up a source of long term support for the community. The Foundation acts as a vital link between donors and local needs and enables people to achieve far more than they could by themselves.

Many donors have been supporters of our charity since we first established in 1999. The Thompson Green Grassroots Fund was set up in July 2008 by a former trustee who wishes to remain anonymous.

The donor said: “I appreciate the fact that I am able to remain unknown, yet can give back to my community. Having been a trustee of Cumbria Community Foundation and the Barrow Committee Trust, I fully support their aims and objectives. I wished to put something into the south of the county where I live and where there is a strong community spirit.

“Being conscious of the guidance for life I received in my own early years, I particularly wanted to help groups and organisations that provide support for young people.”

Over the past six years, the donor has been able to increase the value of their fund, which is now worth in excess of £50,000. It supports projects which provide training and life skills to young people in the Barrow area.

Barrow in Furness Sea Cadets is the latest group to receive a grant of £5,000 from the fund. It provides young people with skills in leadership, teamwork, discipline, self-respect and social awareness. Over 70 young people aged between 10 and 17 attend the Unit every week as well as a number of important parades a year.

If you would like to know how to apply for a grant or create a grant making fund, please visit the Foundation’s website www.cumbriafoundation.org or call 01900 825760.