Funding made available to Mayor’s charities

The Mayor's Charity Committee have awarded funding to three local Bedford charities.

The current Mayor's charities Autism Bedfordshire, Bedford Sea Cadets and Foodbank Bedford have recently received £1,000. This funding goes towards helping the charities support the community in Bedford Borough. Last November, these three charities were awarded £1,650, bringing the total money donated in the last twelve months to £2,650 for each charity.

Money donated to the Mayor's charities comes from fundraising events held by the Council such as bake sales and dress down days. Money was also raised through the Mayor's Concert, Council Carol Service and Bedford Floral Arts Society.

Mayor Dave Hodgson said, "I am extremely pleased to have been able to award £2,650 to Autism Bedford, Bedford Sea Cadets and Foodbank Bedford. Now more than ever, the charity sector needs to be supported to continue doing the great work they do every day. These three charities do great work with, and for, the residents of Bedford Borough. I know that the money we have been able to donate will help them to carry on helping others."

The Mayor's Charity Committee has also named the charities to benefit between 2020-2023. They are Bedford Open Door, Foodbank Bedford and SMART CJS.

Bedford Open Door provides free and confidential counselling to young people in Bedford Borough, aged 13-25.

Foodbank Bedford provide an essential service. It helps residents in Bedford Borough access food and support in times of crisis.

SMART CJS help residents in Bedford Borough who have complex needs.

They support those affected by drug and alcohol use take control of their lives and make a positive change.

These nominated charities are selected by the Mayor's Charity Committee. Trustees select local charities they feel will benefit from the funding support.