‘The funding has been a godsend’

Since 2016, Tesco has supported over 36,000 local community projects through its Bags of Help scheme, with more than £85million worth of community grants awarded so far.

Among the projects that have received a much-needed cash injection are a play area and garden for autistic children in Northumberland; a learning centre in a Bristol city farm, and a night shelter in Manchester that offers accommodation and much more to the city’s homeless.

Another organisation to benefit is EquATA (Equine Assisted Therapy Association), based near Kettering, founded ten years ago by Jo Hawkins to help autistic children. It now has four horses and three ponies, and has received around £7,500 from Tesco to provide outdoor play facilities and bark flooring.

“Our main focus has been on autistic children and their families, but we’ve also helped youngsters with depression, and adults with mental health issues,” says Jo. “Horses and ponies are very empathetic creatures, and being with them boosts kids’ confidence and reduces their stress levels. “We built the fort-style playground, with its slide, sandpit and ramp, and play bark flooring, so there was something for children to do before ‘horsing around’ with the animals. “It’s been a real godsend. So I’d like to say a big ‘thank you’ to Tesco for funding the project, and all the customers who voted for us to receive a donation. You’ve helped make a lot of children very happy!”