Less than two months after it was launched, LCR Cares, the community fund set up by Metro Mayor Steve Rotheram, working in partnership with the Community Foundation for Merseyside and the National Emergencies Trust, has now distributed more than £1 million to 240 community groups supporting the vulnerable and disadvantaged across the whole of the Liverpool City Region.

Speaking about the milestone, Steve Rotheram said:
“The people of the Liverpool City Region are extraordinary – kind, compassionate and resilient, it has been amazing to see how many have worked so hard to look after people in their communities who have needed a little bit of help in these difficult times.
“We set up LCR Cares in a single day at the start of the crisis, working with the Community Foundation for Merseyside, because we knew that there would be not only a need within our communities but also tireless individuals working hard to help people, who would need some support.
“Since then, in partnership with the National Emergencies Trust, we’ve raised money extremely quickly and put that money to work in our communities just as fast.
“We’ve supported all kinds of groups, from foodbanks to mental health charities, from organisations providing activities for children to hospices helping the dying and their families. I’m tremendously honoured that we have been able to support them all and proud of every group and individual involved. This is not over – we will build on what we’ve done so far and continue to offer support for as long as it is needed.”

Rae Brooke, Chief Executive for the Community Foundation for Merseyside, said:
“Many people have helped, and have been helped, over the last two months which is fantastic and that is what community spirit is all about. People are looking out for each other, small acts of kindness and much needed support are making life bearable for those who are isolated or struggling with a variety of issues at this time. However, we know the detrimental impact of this pandemic will be with us for some time yet and that is why it’s so important the LCR Cares COVID-19 Community Support Fund is there to continue to provide vital assistance. We thank everyone and every organisation who have supported LCR Cares so far and encourage others, who are able to do so, to donate to the Fund.”

LCR Cares has now distributed £1,022,376 to 240 organisations operating across the Liverpool City Region. Details on how to donate are on the Combined Authority’s website. Search “LCRCares” or visit www.lcrcares.co.uk