Business, Charity | Posted on May 18th, 2026 | return to news

Blandford brewery opens Community Chest worth £80,000

Voluntary and community organisations are invited to apply for funding from the Hall & Woodhouse Community Chest.

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Hall & Woodhouse has launched its 25th Community Chest Awards, with £80,000 worth of grants on offer – the brewery’s largest ever grant fund.

The Community Chest is a long-running grant-giving initiative that supports volunteer-led charities and community groups across the south of England, helping fund projects that improve local lives and facilities. Since launching in 2002, it has donated over £940,000 to over 1,000 charities, focusing on causes including homelessness, food poverty, mental health, social inclusion, and community wellbeing.

Eligible voluntary or community organisations can apply for a grant by downloading the Community Chest application form from the H&W website.

Anthony Woodhouse, chairman of Hall & Woodhouse, said: “Our Community Chest Awards have been at the heart of our commitment to local communities since my cousin Mark set them up 25 years ago, and this anniversary year represents an important moment for us.

“Offering £80,000 in funding reflects both the growing need within our communities and our determination to continue supporting the organisations that make such a meaningful difference every day.

“These charities and community groups are often a lifeline for the most vulnerable, and we are proud to stand alongside them as they continue their vital work.”

The long-term impact of the Community Chest Awards can be seen through the ongoing good work of Nourish, a Blandford-based foodbank. The organisation supports vulnerable people experiencing food poverty and financial hardship in the local community. H&W has provided grants totalling £3,878 over three years, allowing Nourish to expand its services and help individuals and families access essential food supplies, household items, and practical financial support during difficult times.

Funding has also contributed towards providing debt and budgeting guidance through the organisation’s Community Money Advice service, helping people improve their financial stability.

More recently, funding has helped the organisation continue to provide initiatives such as its Community Cafe and Friendship Club, creating welcoming spaces that help reduce isolation.

To apply for the 2026 Community Chest Awards, fill in an application form via the website: https://www.hall-woodhouse.co.uk/about-us/community-chest.

Applications close for the 2026 Community Chest Awards on Sunday 12 July.

Successful applicants will be notified of the outcome of their application in November 2026, with an awards ceremony held in January 2027. The H&W Community Chest works in partnership with Dorset Community Foundation. 