The Fund is supporting charities and community groups that are helping some of Dorset’s most vulnerable people during the Coronavirus epidemic. Grants of up to £5,000 have so far supported almost 33 projects spanning right across Dorset.

Grant Robson, Foundation Director explained: ‘We are now making emergency grants to an amazing variety of projects and activities. We are helping foodbanks, community transport, older people’s groups, health and disability support, community volunteers, food deliveries, homelessness, mental health and family well-being.The Foundation is receiving an unprecedented level of applications for help from all across Dorset from rural villages and from within towns. Arguably, our communities have never required our help more and we are delighted to work with our donors to target where the need is most.

Thanks to significant initial funding from the National Emergencies Trust (NET) and financial support from generous local charitable trusts and individuals we have been able to act quickly making grants, which will have a real impact on people’s lives, their health and well-being.’

Five foodbanks in Blandford, Christchurch, Wimborne, Poole and Southbourne have received support through a grant to the charity Faithworks Wessex which helps run them. This vital funding will meet increasing demand for food and also fund follow up phone calls for advice and support with beneficiaries.

The funding Dorset Community Foundation is providing has been secured from The National Emergencies Trust together with the local Dorset Coronavirus Community Appeal the Foundation is running. To donate to the Appeal, click here.