Giving young people a racing start
7th February 2022
A budding sports star from Clacton has received a welcome funding boost to support his dreams of becoming a professional racing driver.
Calum Foster, who is 13 and has autism, found himself unable to afford the £1,000 needed to buy specialist safety equipment, including rib protection, a new helmet, gloves and boots, that would allow him to continue his race training and take part in competitions.
After hearing about the local independent charitable trust, Essex Community Foundation, and the funds they have available to support talented sporting individuals, Calum contacted them to see if they could help.
Calum’s mum, Sara Foster, said: “While I had seen details of grants, I had never applied before as usually they are for charities or businesses, but ECF offer grants for individuals, so we applied.”
“When we heard our application had been successful, we were in complete shock and over the moon. Racing means the world to Calum and keeping him as protected as possible is paramount. Thanks to this grant we can purchase the equipment he needs. We can’t thank ECF enough for their support.”
The funding boost of £1,000 came from the Annabel and Gerald Malton Charitable Fund and the Essex and Southend Sports Charitable Fund which are just two of the charitable funds managed by ECF.
Perry Norton, Head of Development at ECF, said: “Some of our donors want their Funds with us to help young people further their talent and achieve their ambitions in sport, music or performing arts. We connect them with young people in Essex, like Calum, who need support.”
If you would like to discuss how ECF can help you or your business support voluntary and community organisations or individuals in Essex, please contact us 01245 355947. You can also click here for more information.
Surviving Winter Appeal launched to help those in need
22nd December 2021
Older and vulnerable people in Essex will be forced to choose between heating and eating this winter – but you could help those most at risk.
Essex Community Foundation (ECF) has launched the ‘Surviving Winter Appeal’ to raise vital funds for older and vulnerable people who struggle during the colder months.
If you receive the Winter Fuel Allowance and don’t need it to pay your own bills, please consider donating it.
All donations will help provide grants to cover fuel and food costs, support activities to reduce loneliness and isolation, and help those in need to access specialist services and community groups.
Andy Payne Worpole, Head of Programmes at ECF, said: “Rising energy and food costs will cause many older and vulnerable people to worry about turning their heating on this winter which can be extremely dangerous to their health and well-being.
“Our Surviving Winter Appeal is a direct way to help people in need in your local community to stay warm, safe and connected with others.
“Every donation, whatever the amount, will help to make a significant difference.”
To make a donation, please visit our giving page.
Cheques can also be sent to the Essex Community Foundation offices: 121 New London Road, Chelmsford, CM2 0QT.