Principality Building Society has proudly announced that over £1 million of donations have now been distributed to 97 community groups and charities across Wales, thanks to its Future Generations Fund, which was founded in 2022 in partnership with Community Foundation Wales.
The project aims to create a lasting legacy for future generations by investing in projects that address the economic, social, environmental and cultural wellbeing of young people in Wales. The fund also enables charities and community groups to help young people have access to healthy food and other essential items, whilst focusing on providing mental health support, taking steps to build financial resilience, and developing skills to prepare for their future and the world of work.
The fund, which was recently open to its third round of applications, selected 18 successful applicants to share over £330,000 in funding. One of the beneficiaries, Hywel Dda Primary School in Ely, Cardiff, will purchase a shipping container to establish a ‘Big Bocs Bwyd’ where they can sell surplus food to support the local community on a ‘pay as you feel’ basis.
Karen Flynn, Headteacher at Hywel Dda Primary School, said “Hywel Dda Primary School is delighted to have received this grant from the Principality Building Society. In an area of high and multiple deprivation, the pandemic, and followed by the cost-of-living crises, families and the community face extensive difficulties. The grant will be used to set up a food-pantry, with food and products on a pay-as-you-feel, linked to healthy eating, food-growing and cooking. This will be made possible through a “Big Bocs Bwyd” shipping container, converted and equipped with the correct storage, shelving and refrigeration. We know this will help so many people in our community and help ensure no family is hungry and every child learns how to make good food choices to help them grow and flourish.”
Tony Smith, Chief Impact and Governance Officer at Principality Building Society, said: “We are delighted to have surpassed the £1 million milestone of funding committed to the Future Generations Fund. We are proud to be working with Community Foundation Wales to support the amazing work of community groups and charities across Wales, who are making a positive difference to the lives of people today and for generations to come.”
Richard Williams, Chief Executive of Community Foundation Wales, said: “We are proud to be working with all the team at Principality Building Society on the Future Generations Fund, providing invaluable support to young people across Wales.”
“The Future Generations Fund has already been able to support a diverse range of projects that are addressing the needs and aspirations of Welsh communities. These grants have helped ensure that grassroots groups and charities can continue to support their local communities through these incredibly tough times.”
