Convenience retailer One Stop has awarded £500 grants to a range of community groups across the UK as part of its 50th anniversary celebrations, with funding being distributed this spring following a nationwide nomination campaign.
The initiative invited customers to nominate local causes via a dedicated online landing page, sharing stories about the impact these organisations have within their communities. More than 7,000 nominations were submitted, underlining strong public support for grassroots groups.
“These groups are the heartbeat of their communities, and being able to give something back to them as part of our 50th anniversary has been truly special,” Jack Taylor, community and partnerships manager at One Stop, said.
Among the recipients is Rainbow Baby Bank in Kirklees, West Yorkshire, which secured nominations from around 100 supporters. The charity works with low-income families and will use the funding to provide Moses basket mattresses and bedding, helping to promote safer sleeping conditions for infants and reduce risks linked to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome.
Sussex-based Bobby’s Big Heart, which tackles food poverty by distributing food parcels, will use its grant to expand support for individuals and families in need.
Meanwhile, the Gosport and Fareham MS Group plans to use the funding to continue providing a warm, social space for people living with multiple sclerosis, offering activities and support for those affected by the condition.
“Our customers didn’t just nominate a group – they shared their experiences, expressed their gratitude and highlighted moments in which their nominated group has made a real difference to the people within their communities. We’re incredibly proud to be playing a small part in helping them continue the amazing work they do,” Taylor added.
Other beneficiaries include local performing arts classes, scout groups, children’s sports groups, domestic violence charities and special educational needs (SEN) spaces and support groups.