The £2.65 million donation to Kent Community Foundation will support charities, community groups and social enterprises representing the 130,000 people living in Tonbridge and Malling and will be called the High Hilden Fund.
Bill Wass, Chair of the High Hilden Fund panel, said, “The High Hilden Care Home was a much-loved local facility in Tonbridge and we knew that when it was sold, it was important that the money was used in a positive way for the good of the local community. With no experience in grant making, the trustees donated £2.65 million to Kent Community Foundation who have all the necessary resources, knowledge and experience to ensure the money goes to support deserving causes within Tonbridge and Malling.”
Josephine McCartney, Chief Executive, Kent Community Foundation, commented, “We are delighted that Kent Community Foundation will be managing the new High Hilden Fund. The £2.65 million donation has made a significant difference to our available funding for grants and we are looking forward to receiving applications for financial support, from new or existing charities and community groups within the Tonbridge and Malling area.”
The first grant from the High Hilden Fund was awarded to the Bridge Trust. The grant of £700,000 will allow the Bridge Trust to create much needed interim housing for the community. Grants have also been given to Age UK Sevenoaks (£15,000), the Kenward Trust (£50,000) and £15,000 per year to Fegans for the next three years.
The balance of the original £2.65 million donation has boosted Kent Community Foundation’s endowment value and will allow the Foundation to increase the number of grants that will be possible in the future.
To discuss if the High Hilden fund might be able to support your charity call Kent Community Foundation 01303 814500
