The Hardship Fund

A long time ago, when we were just the Jonathan Feedham Charity, we were asked by St Mary's Church to look after some money they had received from people who wanted to leave a legacy for people in Wivenhoe who were impoverished.  We were happy to take this on and indeed have added to the sum of money we have available each year to give out as small grants. It is recognised by the Charity Commission as the Relief in Need Fund, or by us now as The Hardship Fund.

So each year, the trustees have some money to give to residents of Wivenhoe who don't have the money to pay for something essential like when their cooker or other critical item in the kitchen goes wrong, or a gas bill comes in much higher than expected.  Or, there is a critical repair needed to their house, like maybe a plumber's bill. We have helped with all these situations, quietly and discreetly, without any fuss. 

All you have to do is to talk to a trustee, explain the problem and why you don't have the money to pay for it. Answer a few questions and let the trustee apply on your behalf. A decision to help out can be made quickly without having to wait for the next quarterly meeting of the trustees. If the need is for less than £100, then the grant can be agreed the same day. 

Remember, the only thing we ask is that the person asking for our help has to live in Wivenhoe.  

The Trustees:  Peter Hill, Bob Needham, Colin Andrews, Cllr Shaun Boughton, Sarah Brooks, Jonathan Crook, David Hutchings, Colin Kelly, Gill Sleightholm, and Debbie Lea-Taylor.