A Wokingham charity helping children with additional needs and disabilities is celebrating after receiving a much-needed grant.
Me2 Club has received £1,500 from Tesco to help it continue providing children and young people aged five and over to feel confident, independent and included, while also learning life skills and making new friends.
This funding was followed by additional grants for two other children’s organisations – £1,000 for Finchampstead FC and £500 for Berkshire Healthcare Charity.
Me2 Club will use the money to fund comprehensive induction training for 10 new volunteers, who will be matched with children who have additional needs and disabilities, to support their participation in weekly mainstream activities.
The three organisations received the money from Tesco’s Stronger Starts scheme, which awards funds to community organisations that make a positive difference to their communities, with £500, £1,000 and £1,500 available.
Lucy Milsom, Me2 Club’s community fundraiser, said: “We’re extremely grateful to Tesco for this funding. The Tesco Stronger Starts scheme is incredible.
“The support they give to local charities is truly vital. It not only provides essential funding to help organisations like ours continue our work but also raises awareness in the community about the causes they’re supporting.
“It’s a fantastic way to bring people together to make a real difference locally.”
Finchampstead FC’s funding will pay for portable lighting so that the boys and girls teams can train and play football throughout the year.
The £500 for Berkshire Healthcare Charity will go towards a sensory-based project helping children process emotions by creating calming environments, helping them to better understand and manage their feelings.
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 Stronger Starts scheme has given out many donations to Wokingham organisations, and I’d urge any others that feel they could benefit to apply now.”
Stronger Starts, in partnership with the groundwork charity, hands out thousands of pounds to Wokingham community projects and good causes.
To apply for funding or nominate an organisation, go online at https://tescostrongerstarts.org.uk.
