Two Ridings Community Foundation distributes just under a million pounds to support Hull’s communities

Hull’s charitable sector has received a significant boost, with Two Ridings Community Foundation distributing £953,801 in 2024 to support grassroots organisations tackling the city’s most pressing issues.

The funding has been administered through multiple funds including the Hull Community Fund, Hull Emergency Community Response Fund and the Know Your Neighbourhood Fund, empowering local groups to make a lasting impact on health and wellbeing, education, cultural heritage, and community cohesion across the city.

“The heart of our work is impact,” said Celia McKeon, CEO of Two Ridings Community Foundation. “Hull’s community organisations are a lifeline for so many people, whether they’re helping young people gain new skills, strengthening communities after adversity, or tackling isolation. Our role is to support and sustain their work so they can continue to make a difference.”

Hull Community Fund

Launched in partnership with Hull City Council, Hull CVS, HEY Smile Foundation and Forum CIO at Hull Minster last year, the Hull Community Fund awarded £48,946 to 13 community organisations in its first round.

Focusing on health and wellbeing, education, culture, and the environment, the fund supported a youth rugby league club in Bransholme, gymnastics and ice-skating sessions, and a street dance project for disadvantaged children. It’s provided dance sessions for disabled and older adults, funded wellbeing activities for families, and launched employability workshops for young people.

Funding for St. Aidan’s Southcoates PCC has replaced broken kitchen equipment, ensuring its free community catering service can continue supporting the local community.

Daniel Broom from St. Aidan's told us "This is more than just a kitchen; it’s the heart of our community. It’s a safe, supportive space where people can come together, find friendship and rebuild their lives. This funding allows us to keep offering free meals, training opportunities, and vital support for those in recovery or struggling with addiction and unemployment. The new equipment has made a huge difference, helping us cater for more people, expand our support, and strengthen our community."

Hull Emergency Community Response Fund

In response to the devastating acts of violence, destruction, and racism that shook the city in the summer, Two Ridings launched the Hull Emergency Community Response Fund quickly distributing £39,327 to 17 organisations. This funding helped groups rebuild safety, cohesion, and trust in the city.

From outreach and counselling to community events promoting inclusion and safety, the Emergency Response Fund helped organisations like Hull & East Yorkshire Community Counselling Service to provide safe spaces and both emotional and practical support.

“The impact of the riots left many people in our community feeling shaken,” said Jamal Choudhury from The Peel Project CIC. “We brought together community leaders and residents in a safe space to reflect, share experiences, and begin the healing process. These conversations provided an important opportunity for people to engage in face-to-face dialogue with representatives from the council and the police. It was also vital to learn from the situation, strengthen our community, and find a way forward together.”

Know Your Neighbourhood Fund

The Know Your Neighbourhood Fund, backed by the UK Government’s Department for Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS), focused on reducing loneliness and inspiring volunteering in Hull. Over £585,111 was distributed in 2024 to 13 lead organisations delivering initiatives that supported befriending services for isolated older residents, relaunched the Talking Tables community meal initiative by Hull CVS, and created volunteer training and inclusion projects for members of the global majority. Sports-based programmes also played a vital role in enhancing social connections and developing new skills.

The Shed, run by Groundwork, is an inclusive space where individuals can learn and share various skills, including woodwork, upcycling, sewing and more.

“Before Joanne joined The Shed, she struggled to find a place where she felt comfortable. Now, she’s made friends, learned to sew and quilt, and grown in confidence,” Jade Collier, Programme Assistant at Groundwork Yorkshire shared with us.

“Joanne loves it at The Shed,” her mum added. “It’s an inclusive place that really suits her and gives her a sense of belonging.”

An additional £280,417 was allocated through other funds managed and distributed by Two Ridings Community Foundation.

Hull’s community organisations are achieving extraordinary things, creating real change and strengthening the fabric of the city. With continued funding and support from businesses, donors, and volunteers, the impact can go even further.

“The difference these groups make is extraordinary,” said Bec Horner, Head of Communications & Partnerships at Two Ridings “They are transforming lives, strengthening communities, and creating lasting change. We encourage businesses and individuals to support these efforts – by donating to the Hull Community Fund - because together, we can achieve even more.”

Distributing just shy of £1 million into Hull in 2024 reinforces Two Ridings Community Foundation’s commitment to supporting Hull’s charitable sector and driving real change for local people. This investment will leave a legacy, empowering local organisations to continue their vital work and strengthening the city’s communities from the ground up.

Information about how you can support Hull’s community organisations or contribute to future funding rounds is available on the Two Ridings website Donate to the Hull Community Fund along with information a full list of the organisations awarded funding

The Hull Community Fund reopens for applications in Summer 2025, providing further opportunities for community organisations to access vital support.