As Cumbria prepares to welcome refugees escaping the war in Ukraine, the Community Foundation is encouraging donations to the Welcome Fund.

Cumbria Community Foundation established the Welcome Fund in 2017 at the request of Cumbria’s Strategic Refugee Group to support refugees and/or asylum seekers arriving in Cumbria.

The Fund provides a single point for collection of donations from individuals, families, businesses, charitable trusts and other organisations wishing to support refugees and asylum seekers. The Fund assists the coordination of efforts in support of people in need.

Funds raised will support individuals and families who are refugees and/or asylum seekers living in Cumbria. Hardship grants will help to relieve hardship and address needs not covered by the Government. Funds will also be distributed to local groups and organisations providing a broad range of assistance and support, from the provision of essential items to family support and community integration. 

The money donated to the Fund will be used for charitable purposes in relation to:

1. The relief of hardship of refugees and/or asylum seekers placed in the county of Cumbria
2. Support for refugees and/or asylum seekers to integrate into the communities of Cumbria.

For more information, visit: https://www.cumbriafoundation.org/fund/welcome-fund/