One City Fund launched in Wolverhampton to help vulnerable people amid coronavirus outbreak
People and businesses in Wolverhampton have been urged to support their own during the coronavirus crisis as a One City Fund was launched.
Civic leaders have called on residents, businesses and organisations to donate what they can to help those in Wolverhampton who are struggling the most during the current uncertain time.
The fund, which has been launched by Wolverhampton Council and a raft of city organisations, is initially aiming to raise £10,000.
The city council will then pledge an additional £10,000 to double the amount raised.
Council chiefs said the aim of the fund was to ensure "no-one gets left behind" and comes on the back of other support schemes led by the authority, including the launch of a food delivery service.
Wolverhampton Voluntary Sector Council (WVCS) and local organisations including Beacon Centre for the Blind, Citizens Advice Bureau, Ethnic Minority Council, Gatis Street Community Space, The Well food bank, Wolverhampton Credit Union and Wolverhampton Homes’ Money Smart service are also backing the initiative.
Donations raised through the fund will go directly to local organisations supporting people in severe financial hardship in the city.
Once reached, 60 per cent of the funds will be distributed to the partner organisations. The remaining 40 per cent will be made available as small grants to grass-root community groups who are supporting local people during the crisis.
Council leader Ian Brookfield, said: “We have launched this crowd-funding campaign because we have been inspired by the incredible community response to the coronavirus emergency and we know that many more people want to help.
“I would like to encourage everyone to donate, no matter how big or small. You can make a big difference, helping local charities and voluntary and community groups provide a lifeline to some of the city’s most vulnerable residents as we all face this crisis together.
“I know that we can hit the target and start helping our most vulnerable as soon as possible. This is a resilient, caring and community-spirited city and I’m sure we can all come together to support this initiative so that no-one gets left behind.”
Chief executive of WVSC Ian Darch said: “Covid-19 has hit many people in our city very hard. The One City Fund, administered by WVSC and supported by Wolverhampton Council and other partners, is part of our collective response.
“By working together we can support those most in need and help to ensure that we emerge truly as ‘One City’, working together and supporting each other in times of need.
“I encourage businesses and citizens to contribute whatever they can afford to a campaign that will show the very best of our city as we all pull together to overcome the current challenge.”
To make a donation, visit spacehive.com/onecityfund
Organisations wishing to make an application to the small grants fund should email Saffi Price on sprice@wolverhamptonvsc.org.uk
