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The Channel Islands Coop is pleased to announce the recipients of its Autumn Community Fund payout.
The fund, which supports local charities, community initiatives, and projects in Jersey and Guernsey, has distributed grants to a wide range of causes, reflecting the Society’s commitment to improving lives across the islands.
This season’s payout includes significant support for projects that focus on mental health, education, community engagement, and the environment. A total of £39,807 has been awarded across the Channel Islands, benefiting 36 initiatives in both Jersey and Guernsey.
The Community Fund was introduced by the retailer in 2021 to get behind the projects and causes that resonate the most with CI Coop and its members. Support is available to projects that inspire the next generation, promote equality, social inclusion and accessibility, preserve the local environment, support the aging population, or support health and wellbeing. The latest round of grants brings the total number of projects supported to 281, with almost £300,000 donated since its inception.
Twenty-one applicants in Guernsey were successful in the autumn round of funding, including Guernsey Counselling Service, founded in 2004, and is the only Guernsey charity offering general counselling and accepting clients irrespective of their ability to pay. The service helps around 100 new clients every year who are struggling with life’s challenging circumstances. By providing early, accessible and ongoing support, the charity aims to reduce the incidence of acute mental health emergencies across the island.
Colin Le Ray, on behalf of Guernsey Counselling Service, thanked the Coop Community Fund for its support. “The very generous donation of £1,200 will fund 30 client sessions over the next few months which will help vulnerable islanders with many aspects of life’s pressures, including stress, anxiety, loneliness and isolation. On behalf of all of those who will benefit, thank you.”
Guernsey Cheshire Homes received money from the Community Fund that will go towards the repair of the home’s roof. Mary Ellen Carter, from the charity, said: “We are thrilled to have such generous funding support from the Coop. Your support of local charities really makes a difference to the community and shows how committed Coop is to be involved in improving the lives of Bailiwick residents.”
Peter Le Masurier, from Guernsey Beach Wheelchairs, who received £2,000 from the Community Fund, said: “This generous support will help us continue to provide our beach wheelchairs free of charge. Covering insurance, maintenance and purchase of new equipment and upgrading our storage building.” Guernsey Beach Wheelchairs provide specially adapted wheelchairs for disabled locals and visitors, to access the beach.
This year, the retailer has pledged that 1% of sales from locally produced products will be donated to future Community Fund applicants, to ensure future community support. Carl Winn, Head of Community & Sustainability at CI Coop, said “Through our Community Fund, we support like-minded charities and not-for-profit organisations that align with our vision as a Coop, providing a financial boost to local causes, enabling them to keep up their incredible work.”
Mark Cox, Chief Executive at Channel Islands Coop said: “We’re incredibly proud of the positive impact the Community Fund continues to have on our local charities and initiatives.
“This autumn’s payout reflects our commitment to supporting a diverse range of projects that truly make a difference in the lives of islanders. From enhancing accessibility and education to promoting well-being and environmental sustainability, we are excited to see how these initiatives will benefit our communities in Jersey and Guernsey."
For more information about the Community Fund and how to apply for our spring payout, please visit our website at www.channelislands.coop/community
