Funding boost for 12 community groups
support organisations with sustainability and projects promoting low-energy use. However it is now donating to localgroupswhoaredelivering frontline support to residents.
The funds have been given to organisations including Wearside Women in Need, who received the largest share of £5,000. The other 11, including the Fans Museum,VeteransinCrisisandEasington Lane Community Access Point, each received £2,000.
Becky Rogerson, director of Wearside Women in Need said:“WethankEmpowerSunderland Community Fund for helping us to tackle the worrying trend in domestic abuse statistics during this difficult period.Ourserviceshavenever been under such pressure.”
Michael Ganley, founder of FansMuseumsaid:“Toreceive thesemuch-neededfundswas a complete surprise, one we truly appreciate and will ensure they are used to their full potential, helping us maintain a daily outreach delivery service for the elderly.”
Nigel Wilson, chief executive officer at Gentoo said: “Sunderland is a brilliant city andduringthehardesttimesof this pandemic, these community groups and organisations have shown the true heart of Wearside, by continuing to provide vital services and support to tenants and residents across the city.”
Alex Grayson, trustee of Empower Community Foundationsaid:“Whilethecurrent nationalsituationisextremely challenging,it’sbeeninspiring to see how community groups and organisation in Sunderlandhaveadaptedandstepped up to support the residents of Wearside when they need it the most.”
OthersbenefitingareYouth Almighty, Shiney Row Advice and Resource Project, Wear Fishing and CHANCE, Sunderland North Community Business Centre, More than Grandparents, Washington Foodbank, Hetton New Dawn Foodbank and Sunderland Foodbank.