Why it matters: The funding supports charities addressing community cohesion and integration, helping organisations reach more people who need their services across Suffolk and East Anglia.
By the numbers: The retailer is donating grants totalling £110,000 in this latest round. Since 2020, it has donated over £1.1 million through its community programmes, supporting over 700 unique charities across East Anglia last year.
The details: Among the Suffolk recipients is UnScene Suffolk, an Ipswich-based singing group for people living with visual impairments. The group offers a supportive environment for those unable to access mainstream groups, focusing on making singing accessible, sociable and enjoyable.
Carolyn Allum, an UnScene Suffolk trustee and singer, said: "Many people become isolated when they lose their vision. Especially if you used to have that sight, then you're thrown into a different world of disability.
"So many participants say that this group a real constant in their lives. Having the security of knowing that at least once a week, you're going to have somewhere you can go to, where you feel safe and welcome is wonderful."
Other Suffolk projects receiving grants include Inspiring Happiness CIC's Lantern Project, a peer-led survivors' group for women who have experienced any form of childhood or adult abuse, and Volunteering Matters' Youth Switching on Ipswich" project, a youth-led group offering weekly sessions focused on social action.
What they're saying: Angela Carpenter, East of England Co-op Community Support Lead, said: "We're privileged to support charities like UnScene Suffolk, Inspiring Happiness CIC and Volunteering Matters through our Community Cares Fund to help strengthen communities across Suffolk and the East of England.
"These organisations are doing incredible work to help people when they need it most, and we're proud that our funding can help them to reach more people who need their support."
The bigger picture: Community Cares Fund grants form part of the East of England Co-op's community support programmes, which also include In-Branch Hosting, Small Donations and Local Giving. Each year, the Co-op invests part of its profits to support local charities and community initiatives that address community cohesion and integration.
The bottom line: Local charities supporting some of Suffolk's most vulnerable residents are receiving vital funding to continue their work strengthening communities across the county.
