The Herefordshire Community Foundation Is a grant-awarding charity helping local voluntary and community groups. Our aim is to make a real difference to the lives of vulnerable, isolated and disadvantaged people in Herefordshire by connecting people who care with causes that matter. We set up affordable, tax-efficient, personally named giving funds for companies, families and individuals. These funds support local charitable and voluntary groups for the public benefit that help keep our county healthy and thriving. Since it was founded in 2002 the Community Foundation has supported thousands of grass roots organisations involved in a wide range of activities including the Arts, Sport, Recreation and Disability. The Foundation currently administers donor directed funds contributing to many charitable initiatives including mental health, youth activities, the environment and the elderly. In addition we raise money for other community needs such as our Surviving Winter fund distributing money to individuals and organisations helping those in fuel poverty. The current climate is very challenging for small, cost-effective groups and public funding cuts have damaged already tight budgets. Private donor funds are a lifeline, playing a deeply appreciated and important role in supporting local people to live and work in this area.