Communities Secretary today announced that the
government is providing £1million to support the charitable
response to the Grenfell Tower disaster.
This recognises the extraordinary efforts made by many
smaller charities and not-for-profit organisations following this
tragic event.
The money is a significant contribution to the locally-led
recovery effort. It will be administered by a consortium of
independent trusts and charities, and be co-ordinated by London
Funders.
The first payments are in the process of being made to reimburse
charities for their immediate response to the disaster, as well
as supporting on-going efforts.
The government is providing a further £48,000 to give
organisational support for the assistance centre, located at the
Westway Centre, and the community groups working most closely
with the people affected. This will be administered by voluntary
organisation Locality.
The funding announced today is in addition to the £5m Grenfell
Tower Residents’ Discretionary Fund.
Communities Secretary said:
“The residents of Grenfell Tower have been through some of the
most harrowing experiences imaginable and the response from local
charities and volunteers has been remarkable.
“This funding will mean that smaller charities and community
organisations can continue to make a huge difference.
“The first payments are in the process of being made and the
government will continue to do everything we can as fast as we
can to support those affected by this terrible tragedy.”
David Warner, CEO of London Funders, said:
“We are delighted that the DCLG has responded with vital funds to
provide immediate support to community groups in Kensington and
Chelsea who are supporting those directly affected by the
Grenfell Fire.
“London Funders, along with a consortium of Trusts and
Foundations, is making sure the money gets to those groups who
can best use it as quickly as possible. We have now put in place
the processes to make that happen.”
Tony Armstrong, CEO of Locality, said:
“Local community organisations have been at the heart of the
response to the devastating Grenfell Tower fire, providing
relief, shelter and support to the hundreds of individuals and
families.
“Local people, groups and organisations need to be heard and have
more power over what happens in their local area. This funding
will help make sure people affected by the disaster continue to
receive valuable services, and have access to the local
facilities and buildings that have been so crucial in the
response to the fire.”
