The financial boost will benefit organisations including a parents and teachers association, a multiple sclerosis support group, transport campaigners, and youth services. The grants, which ranged from £420 for the Wombles of Hele Park Common voluntary litter-pickers to £4,000 for the THAT Food Bank, were announced following a meeting of the authority’s Finance and Audit Committee on Wednesday, October 28.
Henri Treece, Treasurer with THAT Food Bank, highlighted the charity's work, stating that over the past year, its three shops had distributed more than 1,400 food parcels, providing 59,000 meals to those struggling with food poverty. The organisation also provided energy support, hygiene packs, cleaning packs, and home starter packs. Ms Treece appealed for help with purchasing new commercial fridges and freezers due to the unreliability and running costs of existing equipment.
Mayor Cllr Louise Cooke, who had previously opened THAT’s new Community Store, proposed the £4,000 grant, emphasising its importance. Cllr Colin Davidson seconded the proposal, noting his church's donations to THAT and praising the organisation's work.
The Newton Abbot Bereavement Support Group also received a grant of £500, an increase from their £240 application, after councillors heard about the organisation's new public liability insurance costs.
“"We would really appreciate your help in keeping this food bank running."
“"The people who came were so appreciative and this is a really important grant application and I propose that we accept it."
In total, ten awards were made, amounting to £21,336. The photo shows Committee Chair Cllr Alex Hall with representatives from the successful organisations.
