The Fund is supporting charities and community groups that are helping some of Dorset’s most vulnerable people during the epidemic. Grants of up to £5,000 have so far supported almost 33 projects spanning right across Dorset.

Grant Robson, foundation director explained, “We are now making emergency grants to an amazing variety of projects and activities. We are helping foodbanks, community transport, older people’s groups, health and disability support, community volunteers, food deliveries, homelessness, mental health and family well-being. The Foundation is receiving an unprecedented level of applications for help from all across Dorset from rural villages and from within towns. Arguably, our communities have never required our help more and we are delighted to work with our donors to target where the need is most.

“Thanks to significant initial funding from the National Emergencies Trust (NET) and financial support from generous local charitable trusts and individuals we have been able to act quickly making grants, which will have a real impact on people’s lives, their health and well-being.”

One of the funded groups, North Dorset based Countrymen UK received a grant for online emotional support, chair based exercises and meal deliveries. The charity which usually offers farm based activities to disadvantaged older men was able to quickly adapt its activities and continue supporting their beneficiaries.

The funding Dorset Community Foundation is providing has been secured from The National Emergencies Trust together with the local Dorset Coronavirus Community Appeal the Foundation is running. To donate to the Appeal or find out more about the funding available please visit www.dorsetcommunityfoundation.org.