SEGRO, a leading owner, manager and developer of warehousing and industrial space, has launched a new £10 million Centenary Fund which will be used over the next decade to make a positive impact within communities in the UK and Continental Europe, including the West Midlands.
The majority of the first year’s funding of more than £1 million will be allocated to projects which provide emergency relief and which will help address the longer-term impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.
SEGRO is partnering with the Foundation, the largest grant maker in the West Midlands which works with a diverse range of donors to fund community projects, to help identify charity partners which will make immediate and meaningful interventions within the West Midlands’ communities. Charities which provide support to those affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The fund has already awarded over £5,000, supporting 3 organisations, working hard during the pandemic these are Arty Folks, The Enterprise Club for Disabled People & Together For Change Coventry & Warwickshire.
David Sleath, Chief Executive of SEGRO, said:
“The SEGRO Centenary Fund is one way of recognising the vital role our communities have played in our success over the last 100 years and making sure we give something back by helping thousands of people now and over the next decade.
“Many of the areas where we invest are characterised by high levels of unemployment and social deprivation. We understand the long term need to ensure people from all backgrounds have the skills, training and opportunities to secure meaningful employment. These are the areas where we are focusing the SEGRO Centenary Fund and where we feel we can make a significant difference to people’s lives.
“However, in the near term, we cannot ignore the potentially devastating and long-lasting socio-economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Accordingly, we are accelerating the launch of the Centenary Fund and broadening its purpose to help address urgent needs in our communities during this time of crisis.”
Tina Costello, Chief Executive, Heart of England Community Foundation said:
“We’re delighted to be working with SEGRO on the Centenary Fund which will help us address some of the most pressing challenges we’re seeing in the West Midlands. The need for funding to support the emerging issues surrounding COVID-19 is huge but it’s important that funds are channelled correctly. The Foundation will ensure grants are awarded efficiently and effectively to the organisations making a real impact in our communities.
“Grassroots and voluntary organisations can apply for grants of up to £3000 on the Foundation’s website”
The SEGRO Centenary Fund will build on and extend the company’s long-standing and well-established approach to community engagement and support, representing a 10-year commitment to help improve the lives of tens of thousands of people.
It was originally intended to be launched on 19 May to coincide with the 100th anniversary of SEGRO’s establishment, however the plans have been revised to provide urgent support to members of the community who are particularly vulnerable to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. In the first year, funds will be used to help a variety of charities to provide basic necessities, such as food, medicines and household essentials, and to support other initiatives which will help alleviate the impact of the crisis.
In the longer term, the fund will focus on community projects which help young and disadvantaged people into employment and will create community spaces to support people’s training, health and wellbeing.
To apply for funding please click here.