John Baron MP highlights Essex Coronavirus Response & Recovery Programme

MP encourages voluntary and community sector to apply for funding

Last week the Essex Community Foundation launched the Essex Coronavirus Response and Recovery Programme, which aims to make funding available to the voluntary and community sector in our area. The Programme was launched with an initial fund of £300,000, which is hoped will increase with donations (please see ‘notes to editors’ below). When assessing funding requests, the Programme is prioritising organisations supporting elderly and vulnerable people. Initially grants are available up to £15,000.

John said,

“The voluntary and community sector has a large role to play during the current coronavirus emergency, and the Essex Coronavirus Response and Recovery Programme will provide much-needed support to many organisations as demand increases but incomes drop. I encourage organisations in need to apply to the fund.”

Notes to Editors:

• The Essex Coronavirus Response & Recovery Programme’s website is: https://www.essexcommunityfoundation.org.uk/index.php.

• To apply to the Programme, follow this link: https://www.essexcommunityfoundation.org.uk/grants/grants.

• To donate to the Programme, follow this link: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/essex-corona.

• If people are having difficulty obtaining essential supplies, they can register with Essex Coronavirus Action, which is a collaboration between Essex County Council, the Essex Public Health Team and local groups. Their number is 0300 303 9988, open from 8.00am – 8.00pm, seven days a week.

• They can also register with the Community Hub, which is run by Basildon Council and provides support to the elderly and vulnerable at this time. The number is 01268 533 333 (option 1), or e-mail coronavirusresidents@basildon.gov.uk.