Organisations share £30,000 grant to help tackle child poverty
Over 35 organisations across Powys have shared a grant worth £30,000 to help deliver a range of activities and events to support families and children experiencing poverty or impacted by the cost-of-living crisis.
Introduced by Powys County Council to help tackle child poverty in the county, the Local Engagement Pilot Initiatives was a small grant scheme available for organisations to deliver community focused initiatives and events to support low-income families, families experiencing poverty or impacted by the cost of living.
The scheme was funded thanks to the Welsh Government’s Child Poverty Innovation and Supporting Communities Grant Scheme, which the council was successful in securing last year.
A diverse range of activities have been organised across Powys thanks to the scheme, bringing much-needed support for families and children. Some of these activities include:
- Multi-sports programmes in Knighton, Newtown and Welshpool, engaging children aged four to 12 in physical activities in half-term
- Family arts activities in Llanfair Caereinion, Llanfyllin and Montgomery to foster creativity and community spirit
- Weekly dance sessions in Brecon for children up to the age of five
- A breakfast club in Llandrindod Wells where children enjoyed health breakfast and creative activities together.
Cllr Matthew Dorrance, Powys County Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for a Fairer Powys, said: “These initiatives and events will make a significant difference in the lives of those affected by poverty and the cost-of-living crisis in our county.
“By providing essential support and opportunities for families and children, we are fostering a stronger, more resilient community.
“We are incredibly proud of the efforts of all the groups and organisations in organising these events and are grateful for the funding from the Welsh Government in making this possible.”
Clair Swales, Chief Executive of PAVO, said: “Initiatives that support the wellbeing of children are key to building a brighter, more equitable county for generations to come.
“Thank you to everyone who has worked hard to ensure this funding makes a difference to people’s lives in Powys, empowering community organisations to create opportunities that help families thrive despite financial challenges.”
Cllr Joy Jones, Powys County Council’s Anti-Poverty Champion, said: “The activities and events funded through the Local Engagement Pilot Initiatives will have a positive impact on families and children across Powys and are crucial in addressing the challenges posed by poverty and the cost-of-living crisis.
“I extend my heartfelt thanks to all the organisations involved and the Welsh Government for their valuable support.”