Colchester Borough Homes is delighted to announce the latest winners of its Community Initiative Fund, which supports and recognises the efforts of local groups and charities in the community.

 

Twelve community groups are set to benefit from the latest round of Colchester Borough Homes’ (CBH) £40,000 Community Fund, with support being offered to groups providing careers advice, cooking skills, and nature-based activities.

 

The Community Fund helps to bring people together and build stronger, more connected communities by supporting initiatives that make a difference.

 

Judges, made up of a five-person panel of involved customers, assessed how the services and projects of each group would benefit not only tenants but all residents in Colchester, with a particular focus on support with the cost-of-living crisis.

 

The CBH Community Fund supports the local community by making small grants and awards to local charities and community groups throughout the city. The total awarded to the latest Round 1 winners was £17,756.

 

Groups can apply for funding throughout the year and the awards take place bi-annually.

 

Colchester Borough Homes’ Chief Executive, Philip Sullivan, said: “The Community Fund is a great opportunity for us to give back and support local groups and initiatives that are making a real difference in the community.

 

“We are thrilled to be able to support these groups and proud to be working together to make a positive impact, especially when we know that so many local people are struggling to make ends meet.

 

“Please get in touch to find out how the Community Fund can support your local charity or group and be a part of the positive impact it has already made in the community with the many initiatives improving people’s lives.”

 

Sara Kulikowski, centre manager at Signpost, said: “We were thrilled to have been awarded funds, and will put them to very good use helping people to overcome their barriers and empowering them to find employment and keep a job.”

 

Jacqui Stone, Abberton Rural Training CEO, said: “We are delighted for the support of CBH to help us support vulnerable, isolated, and disadvantaged people through horticulture, at our wonderful community garden at Abbey Field Medical Centre. It really will help make a difference to their wellbeing. Thank you for your support.”

 

Emma Kerry, Cook Stars, said: “Cook Stars is delighted to be able to offer children aged 5-11 yrs old a series of 12 funded cooking sessions. Learning to cook is such an important and underdeveloped skill in many children (as well as adults!). At Cook Stars we take care of all the preparation to make it easy for our Cook Stars to simply come along and enjoy our sessions. All ingredients, cooking equipment, an apron, packaging and cooking know-how is provided! Everyone takes home their lovely dish along with a recipe card to cook again at home. We even see to the clearing away and washing up!”

 

Date issued: 8 Jun, 2023