WOKINGHAM people affected by cancer are among those benefiting from £3,000 worth of grants handed out by the town’s Tesco Superstore.
Cancer Support Network is using the £1,500 it received to pay for Nordic Walking sessions, which are aimed at building the strength and resilience of people affected by cancer, as well acting as a social event for them.
Another establishment to receive funding was the 4th Wokingham Scouts.
It was awarded £1,000 towards buying eight new tents so that young people can enjoy camping adventures, connect with nature and develop life skills.
The third good cause to be awarded funds was Wokingham’s Gorse Ride Nursery School, which received £500.
The funding came from Tesco’s Stronger Starts scheme, in partnership with the charity Groundwork, which supports many community projects and good causes in Wokingham, giving away thousands of pounds.
Vickie Randall, who leads the Cancer Support Network, said: “We are extremely grateful to have been supported through the Tesco Community Grant Scheme.
“This funding means so much to everyone here, particularly those who really love the Nordic Walking sessions.
“Tesco’s Stronger Starts scheme provides a brilliant opportunity for the local community to support activities and groups that mean a lot to them.
“We would like to say a very big thank you to everyone who dropped a token into the box to support us.”
Wokingham shoppers can support local groups by dropping the Tesco blue token they receive at checkout into the relevant voting box as they leave the store.
Michael Barron, 4th Wokingham Scouts Leader, said: “We’re very grateful to Tesco for this funding. “Camping is an integral part of the Scouts’ programme, offering young people a chance to disconnect from the pressures of modern life, including social media and technology, and reconnect with the outdoors.
“Studies have shown that spending time in nature significantly improves both physical and mental well-being.
“Physically, camping encourages exercise through hiking, building camps, and engaging in outdoor activities.
“Mentally, it offers a break from the constant stimulation of the digital world, reducing anxiety and promoting mindfulness.”
Tesco customers and colleagues can nominate projects for a Tesco Stronger Start grant by filling in details on the website.
Louise Jedras, community champion at Tesco’s Wokingham Superstore, said: “These three good causes are so important to Wokingham’s community, helping people of all ages.
“We’re so pleased to be able to help groups and clubs like this through the Stronger Starts scheme, which invites our customers to use their blue tokens to vote for local schemes they feel will benefit people in our community.”
Further information about Stronger Starts is available at tescostrongerstarts.org.uk
