Some early Christmas gifts dished out, thanks to Co-op

GOOD CAUSES THROUGHOUT COUNTY SHARE OVER £114,000

CHRISTMAS has come early for 30 good causes in Leicestershire thanks to a funding boost from the Co-op.

Charities, youth groups, communityled organisations and more will get a share of £114,765 raised by the Co-op Local Community Fund.

Many of those awarded a portion of the funding have faced a difficult two years.

Coronavirus restrictions meant charities and groups missed out on fundraising cash due to cancelled events over the past 18 months, and most are still trying to get back on their feet.

A survey by the Co-op earlier this year found that most community causes were expecting demand for their services to increase dramatically, as the impact of the pandemic continued to to bite.

Services providing mental wellbeing support, opportunities for young people and access to food were especially busy.

For that reason, Co-op members have chosen to support local causes within those three areas.

Almost £600,000 has been awarded locally since the fund began in 2016 and, nationally, £100 million has been raised in the past five years.

Rebecca Birkbeck, of the Co-op, said: “Throughout the pandemic, we’ve seen more Co-op members than ever play an active role in supporting their community by selecting a cause

“We’re delighted to see the incredible amount Co-op members have raised over the past five years.

“By listening closely to our local communities and providing the longterm investment and support they need, our members and customers have all helped make their communities places where we can all be proud to live and work.”