Heart of England Community Foundation has pledged a commitment to charities and voluntary organisations across the West Midlands in their journey to sustainability. Having already awarded over £100,000 worth of grants to benefit over an estimated 40,000 beneficiaries across the West Midlands, the Foundation delivers the Community Energy Warwickshire (CEW) Fund and has partnered with West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) to launch the Community Green Grants, both funds encourage local communities to embrace sustainable solutions and support access to green spaces. .

Utilising the CEW Fund and the WMCA Community Green Grants programme, the Foundation has awarded 43 grants – totalling £100,452 in funding – to charities across the region, with recipients including Lighthorne Allotment Association, Kings Rise Academy, and Warwick Sea Scouts.

To date, the CEW fund alone has awarded £57,257 to 40 voluntary organisations and causes, enabling them to adopt more sustainable habits and energy efficient solutions. Alongside this, so far the WMCA has awarded £43,195 to benefit an estimated 1,700 beneficiaries: funding projects that set out to increase green spaces in local communities experiencing green deprivation.

Tina Costello, Chief Executive at Heart of England Community Foundation, commented:
“We’re so pleased to have been able to distribute over £100,000 in funding, and to be able to support so many wonderful organisations across the West Midlands and Warwickshire. It’s important more than ever to ensure that eco-friendly technology and solutions are accessible for our local communities, especially in light of the current energy crisis. As well as helping the environment, these invaluable grants will enable families and individuals alike to live happier and healthier lives, without damaging the future of the planet.”

From reducing CO2 emissions to funding specialist training and education, these grants have provided invaluable support for numerous communities across the Midlands. One of the beneficiaries of the CEW Fund – Lighthorne Allotment Association – were awarded a £500 grant to purchase a 1300 litre water butt and ancillary parts. Collecting rainwater for the allotment users, this innovative technology is helping its local community to save water and support the environment.

Carol Schofield, Chair at Lighthorne Allotment Association, commented:
“We’re extremely grateful to have received funding from Heart of England via the CEW Fund. The water butt has been a great investment and we’re already feeling the positive impact of this grant as we can harvest water all year round. It’s making such a difference by cutting down our water bills as well at the natural rainwater being far better for our crops and the environment.”