Overview
Inspired by the values of Sarah Nelson who created Grasmere Gingerbread® in 1854, this fund puts people before profit. It supports charitable organisations across Cumbria that help individuals reach their full potential. Grants will prioritise projects that:
• help people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness
• improve education for children and adults
• encourage creative and sustainable business ideas
• tackle food poverty
Donor
Grasmere Gingerbread® is a unique, spicy-sweet cross between a biscuit and cake that was invented in 1854 by humble Victorian cook Sarah Nelson in her Church Cottage home in Grasmere – today The Grasmere Gingerbread Shop. Feted by royalty, leading chefs and celebrities, Grasmere Gingerbread® is still freshly baked 362 days of the year inside The Grasmere Gingerbread Shop which is run by the third generation Hunter family who proudly safeguard its culinary heritage.
The fund’s priorities reflect the life and values of Sarah Nelson, the inventor of Grasmere Gingerbread®, who overcame poverty through resilience, creativity, and community spirit:
• Homelessness: Sarah was raised in poverty by a single mother, and later in life her own family qualified for ‘poor and needy’ housing at Church Cottage.
• Education: Sarah taught local schoolchildren to read using letters made from Grasmere Gingerbread®. Her home, Church Cottage, was originally the village school built in 1630 from public donations – showing Cumbria’s long-standing commitment to education.
• Entrepreneurism: Sarah used her creativity, determination and entrepreneurial flair to build a business and lift her family out of poverty.
• Food: Sarah invented Grasmere Gingerbread® as a way to generate income and support her family, showing how food can be a powerful tool for change.
Who can apply?
• charitable, not-for-profit organisations
Priority will be given to projects that:
• address more than one of the priority themes
What the Fund will not support in addition to our normal exclusions:
• individuals
How much can you apply for?
Grants will normally be £5,000 or less over one year.
If you would like further information about this fund please contact:
Sarah Thompson on 01900 820821 or email sarah@cumbriafoundation.org.