Kingston investing in our region as Bernicia Foundation launches second round of funding

A £1m charitable fund has opened its second round of funding to help people and communities across the North East region – with the support of Kingston.

The Bernicia Foundation, which is led by North East housing association Bernicia and funded by profits gifted by Kingston, awarded £130,000 to 14 organisations from the first round launched in January this year as well as releasing £200,000 in April for local authorities to help charities and organisations tackle hardship caused by the Coronavirus crisis.

Applications are now being welcomed for two grants:

• Inspiration Grants valued at up to £1,000 will target inspirational young people aged 24 and under.
• Inclusion Grants of between £5,000 and £10,000 will be made to voluntary or community groups, registered charities, social enterprises and co-operatives with an annual income under £750,000 per year.

Colin Ord, managing director, Bernicia Commercial, said: “As a part of Bernicia, our aim is to help transform our region by investing in people and communities. I’m proud that the work we do generates the funds that can be used by The Bernicia Foundation, providing a £1m boost to projects and initiatives that deliver lasting benefit in communities and help young people to fulfil their potential.”

Andrea Malcolm, Director of the Bernicia Foundation said: “As a responsible business and landlord, solely focussed on the North East region, Bernicia recognised their important role and opportunity to support our wider communities.  In response to this they created The Bernicia Foundation.

“At The Foundation we’re inspired daily by the creativity and determination of people to support one another and want to do all that we can to help. It’s heart-warming to see the difference the funds already awarded have made to peoples’ lives across the region and I’m looking forward to hearing from more individuals and organisations who can benefit from the grants.”

The Bernicia Foundation encourages applications from organisations committed to delivering real community benefits, such as tackling loneliness and accessing employment opportunities, as well as providing support for young talent to flourish. The closing date for this round is Friday 14 August.

For more information and to apply visit www.berniciafoundation.com