Hey there and welcome to the April edition of Charity Buzz! Can you believe it’s already our sixth edition as we continue to move forward into 2024?!
We’re thrilled to be your go-to source for all things related to giving back and making a difference. In this edition, we’ve got the updates, trends and tips for all you passionate folks out there who are dedicated to spreading kindness and making the world a better place. So, stick around and let’s keep the spirit of giving alive!
News Bytes
Check out this edition’s News Bytes blog post by clicking on the below link:
Grants for Charities
A charity can approach a foundation and request a grant to help them carry out their work or achieve a project goal and help them give back to their local community. This gives vital help and support to those who are in need of it. Most importantly, a grant is deemed as a gift that does not need to be repaid. As with most things where you are requesting money, you will need to find out if your charity is eligible and fulfils certain criteria before applying for a grant.
Every Issue we will highlight a different entity that offers charity grants.
This month’s Grab a Grant website is Cash for Kids
Their mission is to improve the lives of disadvantaged children and young people, up to and including the age of 18, in those communities who are affected by poverty, illness, neglect or have additional needs. They fundraise all year round and distribute grants at least twice a year. The value of a grant is typically from £1,000 to £3,000 but they will happily consider applications for larger amounts.
As a national charity, Cash for Kids has 23 regional hubs with a team based locally in each of these areas. To find your local team visit cashforkids.org.uk/locations.
Click here to go to the Cash for Kids website and find out more information on all of the grants available.
If you want to find out more information about grants in general, who is eligible and how to apply for a grant, read our June 2023 Issue article, by clicking here.
Every issue we select a Charity to feature in our newsletter.
Today our chosen charity is Hope Into Action, a charity which is revolutionising the fight against homelessness by empowering churches to provide more than just shelter.
Founded in 2010, the charity’s journey began with a simple encounter in a park, where a homeless man’s plight inspired a group of individuals to take action.
Led by Ed and Rachel Walker, Hope into Action started with a single home in Peterborough, offering not just accommodation, but also vital community support. Today, their network spans the country, with homes catering to diverse needs, from ex-prisoners to survivors of domestic violence.
Partnering with over 100 churches, Hope into Action’s model emphasises the importance of friendship and acceptance in rebuilding lives. Dr. Rowan Williams, former Archbishop of Canterbury, praises its holistic approach, recognizing its potential for community-wide impact.
With a vision to see every church engage in providing homes for the homeless, Hope into Action invites others to join their cause. To learn more about getting involved, visit www.hopeintoaction.org.uk
Hope into Action isn’t just about housing; it’s about restoring dignity and hope to those who need it most.
As well as highlighting a different charity in every issue, we are also including the report of an inspirational charity member or charity supporter, in our “Reach to Achieve” segment.
This edition features James Hudson, the director of Gallery Direct, who is getting ready to undertake a 400 km charity bike ride in June to raise money for Help for Heroes.
Gallery Direct’s James Hudson, renowned for his role as the commercial director, is gearing up for an extraordinary endeavour – a rigorous 400 km charity bike ride orchestrated by Help for Heroes.
Scheduled from June 24th to 29th, the Big Battlefield Bike Ride holds profound significance as it marks the 80th commemoration of D-Day and coincides with Armed Forces Day.
James, fervently committed to this cause, has committed himself to the ride and simultaneously initiated a fundraising initiative with the ambitious goal of garnering £3000 in support of Help for Heroes.
Expressing his dedication, James affirms, “I will be personally covering all my travel expenses, ensuring that every penny donated directly aids the charity. I’m genuinely thrilled about this challenge and eagerly anticipate embarking on this cycling odyssey through France.”
The expedition commences in Sainte-Mere-Eglise, traversing iconic landmarks such as the D-Day beaches of Omaha, Gold, and Juno. It then retraces the footsteps of the British expeditionary forces, meandering through Bayeux, Lisieux, and Bernay, culminating in a symbolic conclusion in Paris on Armed Forces Day.
Reflecting on his motivation, James shares, “Having served in the 5th Battalion Royal Green Jackets Reserves for seven years, I gained valuable insights into the trials faced by soldiers transitioning from service. Additionally, with the 2nd Rifles Battalion receiving support from The Worshipful Company of Furniture Makers, an organisation closely linked to our industry, the military’s cause resonates deeply with both myself and the furniture sector. Participating in this event presents an ideal opportunity to contribute to a noble cause while relishing the camaraderie of fellow cyclists and cherished friends.”
If you would like to donate towards this good cause, then follow the link to:
https://www.justgiving.com/page/james-hudson-bikeride
If you would like to nominate someone for our Reach to Achieve segment, who you feel has shown incredible bravery or surpassed expectations in the face of adversity, etc. please contact us at [email protected] with details and photos where possible.
