A spokesperson for Flimby-based Thomas Armstrong Construction, incorporating Washington Homes, said it is launching the fund to “tackle poverty, provide skills and training, and promote wellbeing in local communities.”
The Thomas Armstrong Construction Community Fund, managed by Cumbria Community Foundation, will offer grants of up to £2,000 to not-for-profit organisations near the company’s head office and other sites.
Philip Hoyles, deputy managing director of Thomas Armstrong Construction, said: “At Thomas Armstrong Construction, we are keen to forge stronger links with our communities.
“Establishing the Community Fund is our way of giving back to the areas where we live and work, supporting local projects that make a real difference to people’s lives.
“This initiative reflects our commitment to social responsibility and our desire to help create a positive, lasting impact across Cumbria.”
A spokesperson for Cumbria Community Foundation said: “Organisations should be working to create opportunities for people to escape poverty, providing skills, education, and training to help individuals achieve their full potential, or promoting better health.”
The fund is set to support groups in Flimby, Workington, Maryport, Whitehaven, Cleator Moor, Gilcrux, Millom, Moor Row, Penrith, and Wigton.
Priority will be given to projects designed to improve the lives of children and families in need of extra support; offer various activities and reduce isolation; promote better mental health and wellbeing; or “build stronger, more resilient communities”.
Dr Jenny Benson, director of programmes and partnerships at Cumbria Community Foundation, said: “We’re delighted that Thomas Armstrong Construction Ltd have chosen to create a fund with Cumbria Community Foundation.
“For more than 25 years, we’ve been the trusted philanthropic partner of businesses who want to give back to the communities they serve.
“We have a deep understanding of the county’s needs and look forward to ensuring this money makes the biggest difference possible.”
Cumbria Community Foundation distributes around £6 million in grants each year to charities and voluntary groups through more than 100 funds established by businesses, individuals, and families.
To check eligibility or apply for a grant, visit cumbriafoundation.org/fund/thomas-armstrong-construction-community-fund.
For more information, Grants and Programmes Officer Lisa Blackwell can be contacted on 01900 820828 or at lisa@cumbriafoundation.org.
Those interested in setting up a fund in Cumbria are urged to contact development manager Caroline Adams on 01900 820825 or caroline@cumbriafoundation.org.
