Local charities and organisations have received a share of £29,130.50 thanks to Torus Foundation’s Community Investment Fund so far this year.

In Spring 2024, Torus Foundation reopened applications for its Community Investment Fund and funding contributions were awarded to 26 projects. The initiatives supported include:

• Domestic Abuse Food Hub that provides essential nutrition to vulnerable communities
• Men’s Over 50s walking football group aimed at improving physical and mental health
• Autism Wellbeing Project that offers online mental health support for autistic adults.
• And much more

These projects, chosen by a panel of Torus tenants, demonstrate the Foundation’s dedication to enhancing the support offered within Torus communities to improve wellbeing, boost skills and reduce isolation.

Lewis Gabrielsen, Torus Foundation’s Fundraising Coordinator said: “Torus Foundation’s Community Investment Fund gives us an opportunity to contribute to the wide range of projects going on across the North West. Helping Torus tenants to decided how funding is allocatedis an incredibly fulfilling experience, and I am consistently impressed by the panel's knowledge and the passion and hard work they bring to every meeting. It is truly rewarding to see these initiatives come to fruition with the help of the Community Investment Fund."

In the last round of funding, Torus Foundation was proud to provide an even greater opportunity for three groups, one in Liverpool, St. Helens and Warrington, each receiving £5,000 for a project to inspire long-term impact.

Amputation Foundation were chosen with their project, an annual activity programme, exclusively for amputees. Offering them the opportunity to engage in various activities like swimming, cycling, and canoeing without the aid of family and carers to boost confidence and combat isolation among amputees.

Dingle Multi Activity Centre (Dingle MAC) impressed with their project providing a substantial amount of support to their local community. Torus Foundation colleagues have observed how Dingle MAC has evolved over time to meet community needs. Funding will enable Dingle MAC to continue running a variety of projects through 2025.

21st Warrington 1st Appleton Scouts will be using the funding to build a bouldering wall, promoting physical health, and offering a unique year-round activity for children in Appleton. This project aims to engage children who are uninterested in traditional sports like football and rugby, providing them with an alternative way to stay active and healthy.

Stephen Cruse, founder of Amputation Foundation commented: “The hardest part of coming to terms with life as an amputee is believing what can be possible. You’re in a dark and lonely place and your future is completely unknown. But seeing is believing, and by connecting with other amputees you can start to believe what is possible.

“Funding from Torus Foundation’s Community Investment Fund means that our flagship residential weekend, when amputees can support each other to try new things, can go ahead this year.”

Applications are open

Torus Foundation’s Community Investment Fund is now accepting applications from charities, community groups and local not-for-profit organisations supporting people in Warrington, St Helens or Liverpool.

If additional funding could help you continue to support people in Torus Foundation’s core focuses of employment and skills, financial inclusion, youth services or health and wellbeing, you have until 31 August 2024 to apply.

For details, visit www.torusfoundation.org.uk/CIF