We would like to wish you festive greetings, wherever you end up this Christmas! There is so much uncertainty again this year – but local charities remain utterly vital, so it is our privilege to celebrate them.
The pandemic has created additional isolation and loneliness for many sectors of the community, leading to further mental health issues for some. Projects funded will help with recovery from the adverse consequences of the pandemic and lockdowns, with grants totalling over £223,000 awarded to 48 organisations.
OCF will be one of the network of community foundations distributing the Arts Council England Let’s Create Jubilee Fund. The programme will support local community and voluntary organisations to develop creative and cultural activities as part of Her Majesty The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations in June 2022.
At this time of year, many people are reminded how vital it is that everyone has a safe, stable and decent home. Homelessness robs people of this basic need.
Today is Giving Tuesday – the antidote to Black Friday and a global day celebrating the power of giving. We are marking this day by recognising the potential of philanthropy in Oxfordshire, and understanding what we can do to help communities thrive post-pandemic.
At this time of year, many people are reminded how vital it is that everyone has a safe, stable and decent home. Homelessness robs people of this basic need.
The Didcot Powerhouse Fund aims to tackle inequality and deprivation within the Garden Town Area of Influence in Didcot. It was founded by Didcot First, key local employers, professionals and volunteers. Together they want to ensure Didcot becomes a more inclusive and sustainable community by attracting funding from a wide range of sources. The Fund was officially launched at an event on the 10th November.
The tenth Maggie’s Day took place on 2nd November 2021. Maggie’s Day is a collaboration between the Maggie Evans Fund and The Story Museum in Oxford to engage schoolchildren across the county with books and stories, culminating in an event with a children’s author. The fund commemorates the life of Maggie, a literary agent who died at the age of 29.
Evidence shows that COVID-19 has a greater impact on black and brown people in terms of fatality, financial losses and other social impacts. A new collective of BAME-led charitable organisations in the county is arguing for more philanthropic investment in grassroots activity serving these communities.
The team set out their aspirations to address the needs of thousands of people in Oxfordshire who are not online. Their vision is that by 2025, the majority of those who are not currently online will have the digital access they need.