Co-operative's helping hand to local community
Channel Islands Co-operative Society Extends a Helping Hand
More than £16,500 from the Channel Islands Co-operative Society's Helping Hands community support programme has been donated to 43 good causes across the islands.
Earlier this year the Society invited applications from organisations and charities with a good cause which was being held back through lack of funds. A total of 111 - including youth groups, schools, church congregations, heritage and environmental organisations, social-welfare and health care providers and less well known charities- applications were received.
Out of the £16,648 paid out; £6,983 went to the Bailiwick of Guernsey and £9,665 went to Jersey organisations.
The aim of the Helping Hands Fund is to give assistance to as many causes who qualify across the community as pos possible rather than make larger single donations to a few. It reflects the Society's underlying principles of co-operative trade where profits not only remain in the Bailiwicks to be reinvested but a proportion is given to a wide range of community initiatives.
Chief Commercial Officer, Jim Plumley, said: 'As the local community retailer in the Channel Islands, we want to help as many local initiatives as possible. Helping Hands is an important part of that commitment to make a meaningful contribution to our communities. We are also delighted to assist those who freely give their time to helping their fellow islanders, in service to the community and in protecting our environments.'
Recipients in Guernsey include:
One of those recipients, the Guernsey Bowel Cancer Awareness Charity, is particularly delighted to be selected to benefit from 'Helping Hands'. 'We have been working with graphic design students at the College of Further Education whose brief was to come up with an awareness campaign aimed at young people' said Anne Brouard, Chair of the charity. 'Their 'Love Your Booty' message is being delivered to secondary school pupils across the island and includes a goody bag containing healthy recipes and tips on how to prevent bowel cancer. With the Co-op's help we are able to give every student an apple to help get the message across.'
Recipients in Jersey included:
One of those recipients, Group Scout Leader Anthony Houiellebecq said "Parachutes are used for the provision of non competitive games that can be played by all young people regardless of their age or ability. Through the method of games, the young people develop skills and confidence in a fun and exciting way. 1st Jersey (St Ouen) Scout Group are absolutely delighted to receive this donation from The Channel Islands Co-operative Society's Helping Hands and are grateful for their support and recognition of Scouting in Jersey. "
Ends
For further information please contact:
Jim Plumley
Chief Commercial Officer
The Channel Islands Co-operative Society Limited
Tel: 01534 879822 Fax: 01534 768312
