Support for charities keeping Harlow residents active
11th September 2024
Voluntary and community organisations in Harlow are being encouraged to apply for grants from the Harlow Recreation Trust.
Grants of up to £10,000 are available for projects and activities that support recreational activities, knowledge and talent for the benefit of people living in Harlow.
The Trust has been managed by Essex Community Foundation (ECF) since 2010 and has awarded grants totalling over £530,000 to support local charities and voluntary groups. ECF assesses all applications to the Trust and works with a panel of local people who share their local knowledge and expertise to help make decisions on which applications to support.
Andy Payne Worpole, director of policy and programmes at ECF, said: “The grants awarded from this Trust help to keep people active in their communities through sport and social projects. Over the past 14 years, a wide range of activities have been supported, including horticultural, bowls, arts and crafts, cricket and cookery.
“Our grants team are always happy to discuss ideas and funding needs with local charities and voluntary groups. Grants are generally awarded for one year, but for exceptional projects the panel may consider projects over multiple years.”
Previous organisations that have received support include Michael Roberts Charitable Trust, (MRCT), Action for Family Carers and Harlow SteelBand.
MRCT runs services for local residents experiencing food insecurity or living with disability. A grant of £3,500 helped them to continue their Maybury Open Door drop-in where people can participate in a variety of activities which help them to build their confidence and forge new friendships.
Andy Thornton, CEO at MRCT said, “Our work at Maybury Open Door is a lifeline for people who are struggling or feeling isolated. Many of our members have limited finances so taking part in our wide range of activities helps to boost their mood and helps them feel part of their community.”
Action for Family Carers (AfFC) also received a grant of £8,000 from the Trust. This funding enabled them to run their popular fortnightly respite group for young carers.
James Clarke, CEO of AfFC said: “Many of our young carers are unable to commit to attending regular activity clubs or sports due to their caring responsibilities.
“Attending our club gives them a break and enables them to take part in recreational activities that they might not otherwise be able to attend. They also connect with other young people in the same situation, and who understand what they are going through.”
Also in receipt of support was Harlow Steelband who received £2,000 to give performances of steelpan music to schools and at events. This unique style of music brings together participants of all ability levels and cultural backgrounds and fosters the same sense of togetherness in the crowds at its performances.
Jackie Nicoll, a trustee for the group, said, “Harlow SteelBand offers local young people the chance to channel their time and their energy productively. We don’t charge for lessons, or expect any prior knowledge, we just ask for commitment and enthusiasm.
“We’re so lucky to have former members keep returning to help out new members. It is also great to see how our band members’ confidence has grown when they take their music into the community. There are not many free activities young people in Harlow, so the band provides a great opportunity.”
For more information on how to apply for a grant or contact the team, visit www.essexcommunityfoundation.org.uk. The deadline for submitting applications is 5pm on Friday 8 November.