Little Braxted Community Fund Surpasses £250,000 Awarded in Local Grants
26th March 2026
A fund created from the sale of a former village schoolhouse is continuing to transform lives and strengthen communities across Essex more than a decade after it was first established.
The Little Braxted Community and Educational Fund, set up in 2012 with the independent charitable trust, Essex Community Foundation (ECF), has now awarded over £250,000 in grants, marking a significant milestone in its journey of local giving.
What began as a single community asset in the village of Little Braxted has grown into an enduring source of support, benefiting individuals and organisations not only locally but also in neighbouring areas of Witham and Maldon.
The Fund plays a vital role in bringing people together, unlocking opportunity and supporting local ambition. From helping young people pursue education and training, to enabling access to sport, creativity and community activities, the grants awarded are supporting local resources and helping people to thrive.
Jarvis Knight,( pictured below) who lives in Little Braxted, received a grant enabling him to take up a place at a college in the United States, combining academic study with elite-level football. He said:
“Growing up in a small village and attending local schools has shaped both my education and my passion for football. This opportunity is potentially life-changing for me as without the support, studying and playing sport abroad simply wouldn’t have been possible. It’s given me the chance to aim higher, both on and off the pitch.”
Supporting projects that bring residents together is also an important focus for the Fund.
A grant of £1,440 will enable Maldon CVS in partnership with Little Braxted and Great Braxted Parish Councils to organise a series of ‘Grass for Games’ free summer activity sessions for children aged 3–11. These events will give families the chance to enjoy fun, active play without financial pressure. For many, these sessions will provide a rare opportunity to take part in structured activities during the holidays.
“It’s not just about keeping children busy,” said WHO. “It’s about giving them positive experiences, building friendships and making sure every family feels included. The support we have received from the Fund makes that possible.”
Grants have also supported university students, helping to remove barriers that might otherwise limit opportunity.
Young athletes have also benefited, with funding enabling progression in gymnastics and athletics, as well as access to activities such as swimming and horse riding as part of physiotherapy and rehabilitation.
Essex Community Foundation works with a panel made up of local residents to help make decisions about which applications to support. Kit Speakman has been on the panel since the Fund was established. He said:
“It is quite remarkable to think that the sale of a single village building has grown into something that continues to give back year after year. This milestone really belongs to the community, and it reflects a long-term commitment to supporting local people in practical, meaningful ways. We see first-hand the difference these grants make, whether it’s that’s helping someone take the next step in their education or supporting activities that bring people together.”
For Essex Community Foundation, the Fund represents a powerful example of how local philanthropy can create lasting impact. Zoe Brampton, Grants Manager at ECF, said:
“This is a great example of how a locally rooted fund can evolve and grow over time. By combining the insight of a local panel with the Foundation’s long-term management, the Fund has been able to support a wide range of needs while remaining true to its original purpose. Reaching over £250,000 in grants is a significant milestone, but what’s most important is the continued impact, supporting communities not just now, but for years to come. It is a powerful reminder of what can be achieved through foresight and generosity.”
To apply for a grant or to find out more call ECF on 01245 355947 or visit our Apply for Support page.
To find out more about how to set up a charitable fund contact Perry Norton, Head of Development at Essex Community Foundation:
Tel: 01245 355947
Email: perry@essexcf.org.uk