Warwick District Council are making further calls to community organisations in Kenilworth to claim funding available to help them deliver essential services as the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic continues.

Launched in July, the Community Economic Recovery Fund (CERF) is offering grants of up to £3000 to organisations who are continuing to support the community through these challenging times.

The funding is targeted at not-for profit groups such as local registered charities, foodbanks and community groups. Groups who have experienced short-term financial hardship, have ceased operations, have had to adapt or increase their service or have incurred additional staffing and administrative costs to support the delivery of an identified project, scheme or activity.

Theresa Taylor, Health and Wellbeing Officer from the Brunswick Hub commented "we received a payment from the CERF fund to enable us to run a project to offer an enhanced chilled foodbank. The application process was simple, quick and straightforward. The funding we received will cover the administrative costs of running the scheme and will directly benefit the families we support."

Warwick District Council's Portfolio Holder for Health and Community Protection, Councillor Judy Falp added "We want to send out a strong message to the local voluntary, community and charities sector that funding is still available to help them to continue with their essential services.

"These grants can be used to cover extra staffing costs, purchase new equipment, make adaptations for extra COVID-proof facilities or for the purchase or provision of PPE. Although a number of organisations have successfully applied we know that there are many out there who are unaware that they are eligible for support."

Applications can be made at any time and will be considered on a first come first served basis, [Lhttps://www.warwickdc.gov.uk/cerf[L+]follow this link for more information.[.L]