Kent Community Foundation awards £4.5 Million to Good Causes

BASED in Ashford, experienced grantmakers Kent Community Foundation has announced that in the financial year ended April 2023, it awarded just over £4.5 million in more than 880 grants, to over 700 grassroots organisations working across the county. This brings their financial support for community groups, CIC’s and charities to almost £60 million over the last 21 years.

Josephine McCartney Chief Executive, of Kent Community Foundation, said:

“Last year the team processed over 1,000 applications and were delighted to award over £4.5 million to projects which supported our five funding priorities: children, young people and families, elderly and isolated adults, vulnerable adults, the environment and employability, skills and enterprise. We are thrilled that not only were the number of grants up on the previous financial year but the number of individual organisations who received funding was up by 30%.

“It has been a very challenging time for charities across the county. Dramatic price rises for gas, electricity and rent, combined with rising salaries are leading to increased running costs for everyone. This, along with a higher demand for their support, as statutory services are cut, and reduced overall income as the cost-of-living crisis affects the amount that is being donated, means things are tough for the voluntary sector.  It is also worrying to see many much-needed charities being forced to close their doors and the number of volunteers falling, because it is costing them too much to offer their time.

“However, we know how resilient the sector can be and against this difficult background, it is inspiring to see that some charities, including  Abigail’s Footsteps, Curly’s Legacy, Bechange, The Young Lives Foundation and The Hygiene Bank continue to move forward, while others are combining resources to support each other and work collaboratively to fill the gaps in service delivery to their beneficiaries. 

“We must of course thank our generous Fund Holders for making a difference to the lives of people, families and children across the county. This year, we hope to announce additional funding from Kent-based philanthropists motivated to use our experience to professionally distribute their donations to deserving grassroots causes.”

To contact Kent Community Foundation about funding for charities and community groups call 01303 814500, email admin@kentcf.org.uk or visit www.kentcf.org.uk/funding.