GRIEF support charity Cruse has been awarded a grant from a borough supermarket, to help people struggling with bereavement.
Tesco Wokingham awarded the money from its Tesco Community Grants scheme.
Community organisations making a positive difference to their communities can apply for grants of £500, £1,000 and £1,500.
Thames Valley Berkshire Cruse Bereavement Support received the maximum grant when Sara Richards from the charity received a cheque from Tesco Wokingham community champion Louise Jedras.
Hannah Yeomanson, Cruse community fundraising officer , said: “We’re very grateful to Tesco for this funding.
“We help people through one of the most painful times in life by providing specialist support to anyone living in the local area struggling with the devastating impact of grief.”
Grief can be distressing, frightening and isolating, says the charity, and can affect mental and physical health, relationships, family life and education.
Bereaved children and young people can experience concentration difficulties, sleep disturbance, anxiety, depression and risk-taking behaviour.
Ms Yeomanson continued: “Tesco Community Grant Scheme has provided valuable funding for our local services at a time when we are seeing a huge increase in demand for support.
“It will help us to provide specialist support for bereaved children and young people living locally, helping them to navigate their grief and adjust to life without the person who has died.
“The scheme has also provided a valuable opportunity for us to raise awareness of the work we do, and we are incredibly grateful for this amazing support.”
The Tesco Community Grants scheme, in partnership with the Groundwork charity, aims to support many 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: “The work of Thames Valley Berkshire Cruse Bereavement Support is incredible.
“So many people have relied on its services at a very difficult time in their lives.
“Without those essential services, a lot of people would struggle to cope, so I’m really pleased that we were able to make a donation that helps towards keeping the services going.
“The Tesco Community Grants scheme has already given out a number of donations to other Wokingham organisations, and I’d urge any others that feel they could benefit to apply now.”
For information about Tesco Community Grants, visit www.tescocommunitygrants.org.uk
To find out about Thames Valley Berkshire Cruse Bereavement Support, log onto: www.cruse.org.uk
