22nd December 2020
An emergency fund set up to provide financial support to charitable organisations in response to the COVID-19 pandemic is now closed to new applications.
The Cumbria COVID-19 Response Fund was set up in March by Cumbria Community Foundation to respond to the challenges faced by many people and families across the county.
Since then, £2.36 million has been distributed to almost 200 organisations and community groups across the county. Grants have been awarded to support vital services like foodbanks, delivery of food and care packages to vulnerable people, telephone and online services offering friendship, support to help reduce isolation, emotional, mental health and financial hardship, and support to access benefits and debt advice to name but a few.
Jenny Benson, Director of Programmes & Partnerships at Cumbria Community Foundation, said: “It is with regret that we announce the Cumbria COVID-19 Response Fund is now closed to new applications. This is because all available funds have been spent.
“Thank you to all our donors who have made grants through the fund possible. The people and communities of Cumbria have responded magnificently to the challenges of the pandemic. It has been a privilege to support hundreds of groups and thousands of volunteers across the county. The fund remains open to new donations and any additional funds donated will be targeted at organisations supporting those facing hardship caused by the pandemic.”
Cumbria Community Foundation manages around 100 grant making funds on behalf of individuals, families, and businesses, awarding on average £2 million a year to a wide range of organisations. These remain open to new applications as normal.
If groups require further financial assistance to continue supporting vulnerable people, we are encouraging them to contact us and apply using our general application process,” said Jenny.
“We know some organisations are concerned that funders will only award grants that are responding to the pandemic. If funds are limited, then priority may be given to projects that are addressing current issues and have the greatest positive impact on our communities, however, we will continue to award other kinds of grants in line with the wishes and interests of our fundholders.”
For more information about the Cumbria COVID-19 Response Fund or to donate, click here.