Council's crowdfunding scheme aims to help vulnerable residents in Mansfield

Mansfield District Council has set up the Mansfield Community Response Network and pledged a donation of £25,000 to the fund, which will provide financial support for charities, voluntary and community groups.

The council is asking businesses, organisations and individuals whose circumstances allow, to donate to the fund which will help the most vulnerable residents in the district during the coronavirus outbreak. Visit www.spacehive.com/mansfield-community-response-fund to pledge your support.

As well as long-standing organisations such as Mansfield CVS and a number of foodbanks, new support groups have formed across the district thanks to residents’ generosity and willingness to help others.

Volunteers are working hard to provide essential food supplies, collect prescriptions, deliver medication, carry out emergency repairs and keep in contact with people who have no family, friends or neighbours who can help.

Executive Mayor of Mansfield Andy Abrahams said: “The people of Mansfield have come together, as we knew they would, to help those who need it most.

“These community groups and their volunteers are helping to support the efforts of the council and its partners at a time when we are under serious pressure. They are a lifeline to so many of our residents and I’d like to thank each and every one of them.

“Although we realise these are difficult times for many businesses and individuals, we hope those who can spare some change will make a donation to the fund to enable these groups to continue providing vital support.”

The council is working with larger charities and local supermarkets to source food supplies for established foodbanks at a time when they are low on public donations and volunteers. It has also launched Mansfield Community Hub to inform residents about the wide range of organisations and businesses that are providing support throughout the district.

Visit www.mansfield.gov.uk for information on food and medication deliveries, emotional support, physical and mental activity and domestic assistance.