Published: 21 January 2022
Churches supporting communities that have been hit by the flooding causing major disruption across the UK are being invited to apply for exceptional grants from Benefact Trust to support their efforts as they respond to the needs of local people.
With people having been evacuated from their homes amid widespread flooding across England and Wales caused by Storm Christoph, the Trust’s grants team is already reaching out to churches and dioceses in the areas that have been most affected.
Benefact Trust is encouraging churches of all Christian denominations in the UK and Ireland that have incurred additional costs due to supporting local flood efforts to get in touch. To enquire about this funding, please call Benefact Trust on 01452 873 189.
The grants available can cover churches’ additional heating, lighting and cleaning costs, but also food and drink provided for residents affected by the floods and emergency response teams and other community-focused initiatives related to the flooding.
Benefact Trust previously stepped up to provide emergency funding to churches when major flooding hit in December 2019 and March 2020. A £2,500 grant helped fund the additional overheads that Fishlake St Cuthbert’s Church incurred during its flood relief support operation.
The church was open every day providing flood-hit residents with food and a wide range of household supplies, including new and used clothing and cleaning materials. It also acted as a base for emergency responders and an informal meeting place for displaced households.
St Peter's Church in Bentley, South Yorkshire, also received a £600 grant to support its community response.
Jeremy Noles, Head of Grants and Relationships at Benefact Trust, said: “When flooding hits, churches across the UK are quick to come forward and play a vital role in the emergency response. We know they are providing much need practical and emotional support, and the need will be even greater given that communities are already reeling from the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic.
“We hope that our funding can help cover the additional costs they incur as a result, and enable them to continue their efforts in supporting their local communities in these challenging times.”
