A total of 26 small charities from across East Hampshire got a surprise when they received a cash boost from East Hampshire District Council (EHDC).
The charities were invited to the council’s offices for an informal ‘thank you’ event where they thought they would share a bite to eat and a drink with EHDC leader, Cllr Richard Millard, and a number of other district councillors. What the charities didn’t know is that they would all be leaving with £500 to put towards their vital community work.
Cllr Richard Millard wanted to personally thank each charity for their hard work which continues to improve the lives of people that live in the district.
As a token of appreciation, each charity was awarded the surprise donation of £500 so they can continue their great work.
The £13,000 that was divided between the charities was drawn from unspent councillor grants that are allocated for local projects. Each year, all 44 district councillors are given £4,500 to put towards worthy causes in their community – the money left over from this scheme was put to good use.
Cllr Richard Millard said: “I am absolutely delighted that we are able to give back to the charities that give so much to our community. I can’t even begin to explain how important these charities are for the residents of East Hampshire and we are very lucky to have so many kind-hearted, hard-working volunteers who use their time to help others.
“Each one of the charities deserves recognition for the invaluable work that they do and I’m glad that we could reward them with a small token of appreciation.”
The event took place on Thursday 26th April at the council chamber, Penns Place, Petersfield.
The charities that received the surprise grant were: Bushy Leaze Children and Families Centre, Canine Partners, Four Marks Care, Holiday at Home, East Hampshire Mind, Alton Counselling Service, Befriending Horndean, Lip Reader, Petersfield, Dementia Friends, PK Playgroup, Artscape, LUPIN Liss, Rosemary Foundation, Petersfield Society for Special Needs, Alton Buckle LCP, Headway, Bordon and Whitehill Voluntary Car Service, Liss RVS Luncheon Club, Fitzroy, Challengers, Headley Voluntary Care, Southern Domestic Abuse Service, Alton Men’s Shed, Community Laundry, Village Montessori Group, and EHDC Christmas Present Drive.
