MORE than £1million has been handed out to community causes by Stratford Town Trust.
A total of 155 grants were awarded as part of the Trust’s funding programme for 2023.
This includes £19,500 to Stepping Stones, who provide support and hot and cold food for those who are homeless or socially excluded, £33,000 to Refuge to support those fleeing domestic abuse, and £1,500 to Shottery Youth Theatre towards staging their pantomime.
Rev Craig Groocock from St Andrew’s Church in Shottery said: “Funding from the trust has enabled us to grow and develop our work with families and children. Our STAMP children’s community choir is providing a safe place for children of all social backgrounds to meet together and sing. Parents have commented on the difference this weekly group is making in their children’s lives – how good is that.”
Trust grants manager James McHugh said charities and community groups working in Stratford made a huge difference and provided vital services which the trust was proud to support.
He added: “It’s not just large grants that we offer – our small grants programme enables many activities to take place from basketball to bereavement support that make a real impact on people’s lives.”
The trust has also helped to bring people together to learn, celebrate, work and have fun during the last 12 months. It hosted 18 concerts and family workshops at The Bandstand and 61 weekly warm hubs and community cafes at the trust’s community hub.
Community hub manager Mary Lee said: “Our community hub is a thriving and welcoming space. Alongside wellbeing activities, adult learning classes and cost of living workshops, we provide hot desking and meeting or event space for community groups. Our weekly warm hubs and community cafes are a great way to connect with other people, have some fun and enjoy a cup of tea and a chat.”
Stratford Town Trust’s 2024 grant round will open from March 4 until September 27.
For more information visit www.stratfordtowntrust.co.uk
