Winter grants available to combat food and fuel poverty in Hertfordshire

The Hertfordshire Covid-19 Winter grants scheme is open for applications but the deadline to apply is fast approaching.

Managed by local grant making charity, Hertfordshire Community Foundation, the grants scheme helps local charities and community groups that support vulnerable adults by providing access to food and/or support with bills such as fuel and water.

The funding has been made available by Hertfordshire County Council as a part of the Government’s £170m National Covid-19 Winter Grants Scheme to support vulnerable people over the winter.

Helen Gray, Foundation Director for Hertfordshire Community Foundation said: “We know that an increasing number of households are facing severe hardship as the ongoing impact of the pandemic is felt across the county.

"This funding will help to keep local residents warm, fed and well during the winter months.

“We encourage local groups, of all sizes, who are supporting vulnerable people this winter to apply for a grant of up to £5,000.

"We are particularly keen to hear from groups supporting adults who have been disproportionately impacted by the pandemic or who are marginalised.

“These funds will help local organisations and community groups who make a real difference to local people’s lives to build on the fantastic work they are already doing for others.”

The deadline for applications is Monday, February 8, and grants must be spent within three months of receipt.

To find out how to apply click here.

Hertfordshire Community Foundation is an independent charity that encourages local giving.

Donations received are turned into grants to support grassroots charities and voluntary groups working to improve the lives of vulnerable people and create stronger local communities in Hertfordshire.

During 2019/2020 £1,015,736 was awarded in grant aid to over 380 charitable groups working to tackle identified need in Hertfordshire and make it a better place to live, for everyone.