East of England Co-op’s Community Cares Fund supports almost 5,000 people across East Anglia

Why it matters: This latest round of funding continues the Co-op’s commitment to supporting community projects and demonstrates the power of collaboration to make a lasting impact.

The details: The Community Cares Fund is one of the key ways the Co-op reinvests a portion of its profits back into local communities. Since its launch in April 2020, the Fund has donated over £1 million, helping to reach more than 146,000 people in East Anglia.

In the latest round of funding, the Co-op is supporting 29 local projects, with several based in Suffolk, that are focused on community cohesion and integration. These initiatives aim to improve lives and foster a sense of belonging in the region.

Suffolk organisations receiving support:

• Bury Drop In

• Disability Advice Service (East Suffolk)

• Future Female Society CIC

• INVOLVE Active

• LEAPS Suffolk

• Outreach Youth

• St Elizabeth Hospice

• Suffolk Refugee Support

• Stowmarket Youth Theatre

• Transforming Futures Suffolk

• Unscene Suffolk

What they’re saying: Karen Double, Founder and Managing Director of LEAPS Suffolk, commented on the importance of the funding for their work: “We’re delighted to receive this grant from the East of England Co-op Community Cares Fund. Thanks to this support, we can offer additional places at our Holiday Club, giving children and young people the opportunity to take part in arts and crafts, cooking, and physical activities. These sessions are incredibly important for their development and inclusion.”

Andy Rigby, Acting Chief Executive Officer for the East of England Co-op, also shared his thoughts: “Our focus has always been on strengthening local communities, and we are proud to continue that mission through our Community Cares Fund. Supporting almost 5,000 people with this latest round of funding demonstrates our commitment to helping those who need it most.”

The bottom line: This funding is another example of the East of England Co-op’s dedication to supporting local communities and making a real difference to those in need. Alongside the Community Cares Fund, the Co-op’s Local Giving initiative enables colleagues, members, and customers to contribute to causes close to their hearts.

Want to learn more? For further details on the Community Cares Fund and the East of England Co-op’s community initiatives, visit www.eastofengland.coop.