A CHARITY tackling children’s social isolation and loneliness is celebrating after receiving a much-needed grant.
The Wokingham-based Me2 Club received £1,500 from Tesco to help it continue providing children and young people with mainstream leisure activities so they can join in and have fun.
Me2 Club, which is also marking its 20th anniversary, will use the money to help fund recruitment, specialist training and on-going support for volunteers.
It received the money from Tesco’s Community Grants scheme, which awards funds to community organisations that make a positive difference to their communities, with sums of £500, £1,000 and £1,500 available.
Me2 Club, an inclusion charity for children and young people in the Wokingham and Reading boroughs, received the maximum grant.
Chin Davies, Me2 Club’s CEO, said: “We’re extremely grateful to Tesco for this funding.
“With our unique support, children are given the chance to enjoy all the benefits of play.
“This promotes increased confidence, self-esteem, independence and opportunity to develop new friendships.
“Our purpose is to tackle the social isolation and loneliness experienced by children who are not able to access mainstream leisure activities.
“We are needs-led and don’t require a formal diagnosis to offer support.
“Tesco’s Community Grants scheme is excellent.
“Not only does it raise essential funds but it also raises awareness of the charity and the support we provide in the community.”
The Tesco Community Grants scheme, in partnership with the Groundwork charity, exists to support community projects and good causes.
It is open to registered charities and not-for-profit organisations, with all eligible organisations able to apply for funds now.
Louise Jedras, Community Champion at the Finchampstead Road store, said: “So many families rely on the services that Me2 Club provides.
“Without those services, lives would be badly affected, so I’m really pleased that we were able to make a donation that keeps the charity going.
“The Tesco Community Grants scheme has already given out a number of donations to Wokingham organisations, and I’d urge any others that feel they could benefit to apply now.”
The scheme is open to registered charities and not-for-profit organisations.
Groups wishing to apply should visit: www.tescocommunitygrants.org.uk
Further information about the charity can be found at: www.me2club.org.uk
