Nineteen community groups across Colchester will share £19,142.52 in the latest round of grants from Colchester Borough Homes. The awards, announced on 1 July, mark the first round of the 2026 Community Fund and will back projects ranging from food banks to youth clubs and end-of-life care.
Among the recipients are Colchester Foodbank, The Underdog Crew CIC, and St Helena Hospice. Philip Sullivan, Chief Executive of Colchester Borough Homes, said each round of the Community Fund highlights the incredible dedication and creativity of organisations working across Colchester. “Each round of our Community Fund highlights the incredible dedication and creativity of organisations working across Colchester. These groups are providing essential support, creating opportunities, and bringing people together at a time when many continue to face real challenges. We are proud to support their work and to help make a lasting difference in our communities,” he said.
The fund, which distributes £40,000 across two rounds each year, targets projects that improve wellbeing, reduce isolation, or offer practical help to residents struggling with the cost of living. Applications for the first round closed on 17 May, and a panel of CBH customers decided which initiatives would receive backing. Julie Pearsall, Customer Engagement Officer, remains the point of contact for future applicants on 07773 050341 or [email protected].
Previous recipients have included Greenstead Community Centre, Connie’s Kitchen, Tiptree Community Fridge, and Colchester Credit Union, alongside a range of groups such as Berechurch Youth Club, Little Explorers, and the Bangladeshi Women’s Association Essex.
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