Wales Flood Recovery Fund launched to help Welsh Communities
Fund launched to support Welsh communities following severe weather and flooding over the Christmas period
On New Year’s Day the Community Foundation in Wales set up a new fund to help communities recover from this winter’s severe storms and flooding.
The floods have seen 1,400 people begin the year without power after a month’s worth of rain fell in 24 hours. Drivers in North Wales had to be rescued from stranded and floating cars, and main roads such as the A55 were closed completely on Boxing Day. Fire-fighters battled through the night to protect flood-threatened homes from thousands of gallons of water.
As a result of the harsh storms and following public concern for the effected families and communities, the Community Foundation in Wales has re-established the Wales Flood Recovery Fund.
Donors from across Wales are invited to give to the fund which, in the coming weeks and months, will award grants to charities and community projects in the most affected areas.
Liza Kellett, Chief Executive of the Foundation, said, “Two years ago a range of donors gave a fantastic £85,000 which helped people from across Wales tackle the challenges brought about by the extreme weather. The grants awarded provided valuable support to community groups and projects helping people of all ages to repair, recover and rebuild their communities.
“For example Rhyl flood relief efforts received a grant of £25,000, which supported the costs of providing people with friendly support and assistance in the face of flooded homes. Other grants were awarded to small voluntary groups, such as the Cascade & District Allotment Association, which managed to repair the wind-damaged roof of its communal storage shed, enabling more people to get into gardening.
“As a charity dedicated to connecting donors with do-ers, we set up this new flood recovery fund to be an easy and effective way for donors to help local projects recover their community spirit. Thank you for supporting communities across Wales to recover from a festive season overwhelmed by the severe weather and flooding.”
