New Mansfield crowdfunding drive to raise cash for support groups

The district council has set up the Mansfield Community Response Network and pledged a donation of £25,000 to the fund, which will provide financial assistance for charities, voluntary and community organisations.

The council is asking businesses, individuals and others to make donations that will go towards the most vulnerable residents during the coronavirus outbreak.

As well as long-standing organisations such as Mansfield CVS and a number of food banks, new support groups have formed across the district thanks to people’s generosity.

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

Mansfield mayor Andy Abraham 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 food banks 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 help throughout the district.

Visit www.mansfield.gov.uk/coronavirus/communityhub for information on food and medication deliveries, emotional support, physical and mental activity, domestic assistance and animal welfare, as well as links to educational resources.

See www.spacehive.com/mansfield-community-response-fund to back the Mansfield Community Response Network.