Charities and community groups in Oxfordshire have received a helping hand this month after The Midcounties Co-operative enabled groups to access grants totalling £17,030 via their fund with Oxfordshire Community Foundation. New applications will be sought in August.
Among the 11 groups that benefited, Community Emergency Foodbank Oxford was awarded £1,900 to help towards running costs. The group, which helps homeless people and those in need in the area, will also use the funds to buy additional food to distribute to the area.
OYAP Trust (Oxfordshire Youth Arts Partnership) will be using its £2,000 donation to help running costs of two programmes: Rock School and Junior Rock School, while OXSRAD (Oxford & District Sport and Recreation Association for the Disabled) will be putting funds towards purchasing a new leg press machine for its gym.
Other groups that were awarded grants include The Grove Scout Group, Headington Action, East Oxford Farmers’ and Community Market, The Archway Foundation, Coram Life Education Thames Valley, Wood Farm Parent & Toddler Group, I Cycle West Oxon and Experience Chipping Norton. Each of the 11 good causes were presented with a donation of up to £2,000 from The Midcounties Co-operative’s Community Fund, which is held and managed by Oxfordshire Community Foundation for grants in the area, at The Midcounties Co-operative Botley Food store. The grants are a part of the Society’s ongoing commitment to provide a positive impact to the local communities in which it serves.
Tarra Simmons, General Manager of Co-operative Social Responsibility at The Midcounties Co-operative, said: “We’re proud to be able help charities and community groups in Oxfordshire to access a boost in funding. These 11 groups each play a vital role in offering support, essential services and social activities for local residents, and the donations will be used to help them continue their good work.”
The Midcounties Co-operative Community Fund will open again for applications on 1st August, with grants of up to £2,000. The closing date is 26th August. If you are part of a community group or organisation, you could apply for funding. You must be a member of The Midcounties Co-operative and your group must be working in a community where there is a Midcounties store. For further details please visit The Midcounties Co-operative website.