A community fund, which offers monthly cash grants to struggling SE15 neighbours in need of support, is running low.
It was set up on Rye Lane in March 2020 by a mutual aid group, who all have other jobs but share a common commitment to their neighbours.
Emma O’Dwyer, one of the admin team of the fund, said: “Local people put money in, and the idea is if they were ever in need, the fund is there for them too.”
So, who can get it? “It works on a trust-first basis. That means anyone can apply, as long as they live in SE15.” The fund is for personal use, so recipients don’t have to specify what they’re using it for. “People can apply for up to £50 at a time, limited to once a month per household.”
“Over the course of two years, we’ve given out over £45,000 to SE15 residents.”
The fund was set up during the pandemic, but now, with hard times sweeping across the country once more, they’re in need of a boost.
“Recently, the amount of money we’re getting in is less than what we’re putting out,” Emma explains.
The team are going to start fundraising to top it up but are encouraging local businesses to donate to the fund to make sure it can carry on supporting the local community.
“It’s going to be challenging.”
If you’re a local business owner that wants to help support locals, you can find out how to donate here