Storm cloud’s silver lining as East Grinstead groups share large donation

With the cost of living crisis biting, a major donation to the East Grinstead Food Bank has helped the charity to keep up with the high demand over the festive period.

The food bank was one of 21 charities and community organisations in the town which have shared a £100,000 donation from South East Water, and voted for by local residents registered with the company’s My Account.

The money was given as a thank you for its customers’ patience and understanding following water supply problems last year after power issues caused by Storm Eunice.

The loss of water in the East Grinstead area happened as a direct result of two power failures at South East Water’s major water treatment works in Barcombe in addition to other power related issues that were experienced in the network at the time.

Which groups were chosen to benefit was down to the area’s MP Mims Davies and representatives from a number of local organisations, who put forward 21 organisations for people to choose from.

The amount each group received was determined on the percentage of votes resulting in the highest receiving £26,784 and on a sliding scale down to £207.

Tanya Sephton, Customer Services Director, South East Water said: “We set up this fund in recognition of the impact that the loss of water had on the community in and around East Grinstead.

“While the storm was outside of our control, we took this innovative approach to recognise the event, working with local customers and stakeholders, to reward charities, community groups and not for profit organisations in the area.

“As the charities and community groups chosen by Mims and representatives from local organisations reach the majority of residents our apology is a practical solution that will benefit the town for years to come.”

Our apology is a practical solution that will benefit the town for years to come.

Mims Davies MP, for Mid Sussex said: “I was very pleased to be approached by South East Water to nominate charity groups for this vital additional funding. My thanks go to all those who worked with me on this and I am delighted so many wonderful charities have benefited from this very generous donation. I know charities have had a very difficult time recently.

“My thanks must also go to all those who took the time to vote for the local charities put forward. We know the difference it will make to the community and these brilliant organisations that do so much for the area.”

East Grinstead Food Bank topped the poll receiving £26,784 much to the delight of its manager Mike Barlow. He said: “We are incredibly grateful to everyone who voted for us as this large donation will help us to keep up with the increase in the demand we are facing due to the financial crisis many local people are facing.”

Age UK East Grinstead & District was the next most popular getting £11,169. Barry Gilbert, Chief Operations Manager, said: “As an independent local charity, donations such as this are crucial so we can continue to fund new ways of supporting, assisting or simply being there for the most vulnerable and isolated people within our community.”

To come third in the poll was Jigsaw (South East) Child Bereavement Charity which received £10,548. Carolyn Steer, Business Development Manager said: “This is a significant donation and will make a huge difference to local bereaved children, young people and their families and those facing the death of a loved one.”

To see the full list of charities and community organisations that have received a donation go to southeastwater.co.uk/about/community/east-grinstead-community-fund/