THE Wiltshire Community Foundation has launched a Coronavirus response fund to help voluntary groups across the county deal with effects of the pandemic.
The Wiltshire and Swindon Coronavirus Response Fund will work alongside the National Emergencies Trust’s Coronavirus Appeal, also launched this week, to raise money for financial support to groups helping the most vulnerable people in communities all over the county.
The Wiltshire and Swindon appeal will prioritise groups supporting individuals who are most affected by the outbreak, particularly those facing issues brought about by isolation or loss of income.
Interim co-chief executive Fiona Oliver said: “At this time many grass roots charities and organisations are facing unprecedented challenges and are under immense pressures as they try to support the most vulnerable people in our communities.
“We don’t yet know what the full effects of this pandemic will be on these groups who do such vital work, which is why we want to build a fund that is ready to help once the fallout becomes clearer. “The people of Wiltshire and Swindon have always responded wonderfully in times of crisis and we are certain they will do so again.”
To donate to the Wiltshire and Swindon Coronavirus Response Fund, go to: https://localgiving.org/appeal/coronavirus-response-fund.
The fund will be distributed to groups alongside Wiltshire and Swindon’s share of the National Emergencies Trust Coronavirus Appeal fund, which will be funnelled through the UK’s 46 Community Foundations.
A spokesman for the UK Community Foundation, the umbrella group representing the 46 foundations, said: “The National Emergencies Trust has today launched an appeal to raise funds to help local charities to support those individuals suffering hardship as a result of the coronavirus outbreak. The National Emergencies Trust will distribute money raised through a number of charitable organisations including local Community Foundations, to ensure it reaches those who need it most.
“Community Foundations are well placed to support local charities to overcome challenges presented by this ongoing emergency.”
More information about the National Emergencies Trust Appeal can be found at https://nationalemergenciestrust.org.uk/coronavirus.
Mrs Oliver said: “We are responding quickly to this crisis and for that reason finer details of both appeals are still being finalised. For the most up to date information from the foundation, please visit our website at https://www.wiltshirecf.org.uk/