Community section.qxp_Layout 1 19/08/2021 16:15 Page 74
MENDIP TIMES
Tackling the effects of the pandemic QUaRTeT Community Foundation’s Covid impact report shows it distributed a record £5.2 million between april 2020 and March 2021. its report, a Year like No Other, shows the reach and impact of its grant-making, and the role of community action and local charitable giving. last year a total of 930 local projects received Quartet grant funding to help local communities. Together, these projects supported over 590,000 people in North Somerset, B&NeS, Bristol and South Glos. This included those self-isolating or shielding, hungry families or people needing mental health support due to the pressures of the pandemic. Many of these people are often marginalised from mainstream support and opportunities or live in the most deprived areas.
The Strawberry Line cafe in Yatton was one of the organisations to receive support
A busy weekend
Suzanne Rolt (left) and Sue Mountstevens
Quartet also recorded its highest ever total of donations and voluntary income last year, £16.7 million. This ranged across both local and national funds, including the National emergencies Trust. its permanent endowment fund now stands at £56.6 million, making it one of the largest of any community foundation in the UK. But it says this next year will be a crucial one for the local charitable sector as it tackles social needs exacerbated by the pandemic. it’s launched a Recovery Fund and is keen to hear from individuals and companies interested in working with them. Chief executive, Suzanne Rolt, said: “During the pandemic we’ve worked like never before, with record levels of funds both raised and distributed. This has only been possible thanks to the generosity of our donors and fund holders. “We recognise that the need for support across local communities is as high today as it has been throughout the pandemic. This is not a return to business as usual – Quartet is helping organisations to adapt and to work in new ways. This requires longer term, strategic support.” Chair, Sue Mountstevens, said: “i’m so proud of everything the team has achieved over the past year and in the face of enormous challenges. Yet 16 months on the pandemic is far from over, and the demand for our grants continues to grow. “Quartet is here to bring together people who want to help the local community with projects that make a real difference. i’d invite anyone interested in helping to tackle this rising need to read the report and get in touch with the team.”
Uphill had a busy weekend when it staged its 75th annual show as well as a summer fete for Weston hospicecare. in its heyday the show had over 1000 entries with the hall full of flowers and produce. With over 250 entries this year, the show still provided great enjoyment for those who attended in larger numbers than usual. The money raised through refreshments, a raffle and donations on the door will help the Uphill Village Society maintain and promote the village. PAGE 74 • MENDIP TIMES • SEPTEMBER 2021
Centre re-opens
The volunteers of langport & District Red Cross hope to open their langport centre on Monday, September 6th, to welcome back friends from 10am12noon each day after the long Covid shutdown. The entrance is in the large car park in langport and donations can be taken there during opening hours or to Somerton by arrangement with Chris Cox on 01458 273085. They do not have room for large items such as furniture, but are usually happy to re-home mobility aids.
