Local causes in Guernsey and Jersey are celebrating after being awarded funding in the spring round of the Channel Islands Cooperative Society’s Community Fund.
This year’s spring round saw £44,767 granted to 46 successful applicants across Guernsey and Jersey, following 114 applications from community organisations across the islands.
The CI Coop Community Fund helps grassroots organisations that are making a real difference to island life – from youth initiatives and wellbeing services to conservation projects and community events.
One of the recipients in Guernsey was Adult Disability Services, part of Health & Social Care, who are behind La Vieille Plage – a new bespoke residential development for islanders with profound and multiple learning disabilities.
“On behalf of the future residents, I’m sincerely grateful to the Channel Islands Co-op Community Fund for their grant funding towards this project,” said Georgina Hayes, Senior Programme Manager.
“This generous donation will enable the purchase of colourful and engaging furnishings and equipment to aid navigation and enhance activities of daily living. We are delighted to partner with the Co-op, whose values of ‘putting the local community at our heart’ reflect our HSC Care Values.”
In Jersey, Tiny Seeds, a Jersey-based fertility support charity was a successful applicant. “We are incredibly grateful to the Channel Islands Coop for supporting Tiny Seeds through their Community Fund,” said Chloé Fosse, Founder & Charity Operations Manager.
“This grant will enable us to continue offering our popular Mindful Making support sessions, which provide a safe and welcoming space for those navigating the often isolating experience of fertility struggles. At Tiny Seeds, we see first-hand how important it is for people to be able to access a range of support options – and this funding will help us reach even more individuals in need.”
Another recipient was Dementia Jersey. Susie Kelly, Activities and Volunteer Coordinator for the charity said: “We are so grateful to Coop for their generous support of our Summer Excursion initiative, which has been specially designed to provide a special treat for people living with dementia and their families and carers. The funding will allow us to provide social connection in a safe and dementia-friendly environment, helping to reduce isolation and promote wellbeing for both people with dementia and those who support them.”
Carl Winn, Head of Community and Sustainability at the Channel Islands Cooperative Society said: “The CI Coop Community Fund is part of who we are. As a co operative, we’re proud to give back to projects that help create stronger, healthier, and more connected communities across the islands.
“This spring round has again shown just how many brilliant initiatives are out there – and we’re honoured to support them.”
Picture: Credit – Dementia Jersey
