Manchester Airport Community Trust Fund pledges £34,000 to 20 local causes

Charities and community groups from Greater Manchester and Cheshire celebrating a grant from Manchester Airport’s Community Trust Fund.

The Fund, which has given away over £4 million since it was set up in 1997, pledged a total of £34,090.75 to 20 organisations at its latest quarterly meeting.

Among the beneficiaries in Stockport is Your Local Pantry, a foodbank and community hub in Bridgehall, Stockport, which was awarded almost £1,000 for equipment including a new fridge freezer.

Julie Nelson-Hall, an organiser at Your Local Pantry, said:

“We are thrilled with the grant from Manchester Airport for a new fridge and whiteboards. We have been running our pantry since 2016, recognising the importance of affordable food provision for local residents.

“Our members pay £4.50 a week and can access 10 items of food plus free fruit, vegetables and bread. The new fridge will allow us to replace our current fridge which is coming to the end of its life.”

Other Stockport groups to receive funding include Stockport Boccia Club, St Anns Road North Allotment Association and Romiley Little Theatre.

The Manchester Airport Community Trust Fund is managed by a committee of trustees from the local area alongside representatives from the airport. It makes pledges worth up to £100,000 every year to groups based within 10 miles of the airport, including parts of Manchester, Tameside, Trafford, Stockport and Cheshire. Groups are able to bid for up to £3,000 of funding for initiatives with a clear and lasting community benefit.

Robert Pattison, Chair of the Community Trust Fund, said:

“It is fantastic to have been able to support such a wide range of good causes at our latest meeting. The Community Trust Fund forms a big part of Manchester Airport’s commitment to be a good neighbour, and ensure communities on our doorstep share in the airport’s success. We are proud to play our part in supporting 20 charities and community groups with projects that will benefit thousands of people in those communities.”