Community groups urged to apply for share of funds raised by Co-op’s summer food promotion

The retailer pledged to donate 20p from sales of its “three for two” picnic offer to the National Emergencies Trust (NET) to fund grassroots projects providing access to food and promoting well-being in communities.

Applications are now open for emergency funding for groups, such as foodbanks, volunteer centres and food delivery services, which is being distributed through 46 Community Foundations across the UK.

Rebecca Birkbeck, director of community and shared value at the Co-op, said: “The need faced by many families is only growing and we continue to do all we can to support the most vulnerable to gain access to the food they need.

“Our co-operation with NET and UK Community Foundations means this funding can quickly go to work.

“Focusing on what really matters in local communities and providing direct support to those who most need it to make a difference to their health and wellbeing.”

Grants available to local groups range from £2,000-£10,000.

Organisations should apply to their local Community Foundation for funding before 13 November. For more information about how to apply, visit: www.ukcommunityfoundations.org/our-programmes/coopfunding

The Co-op has also made several other recent charitable donations.

It provided vouchers during October half-term for over 6,000 eligible students in its 25 academies across the north of England.

It also raised funds and donated stock to provide over five million meals for the charity, Fare Share, which provides essentials to over 4,000 community food banks.