Town Mayor brings charities and good causes together virtually
09/02/2021
On-line event looks to address fundraising problems caused by coronavirus lockdowns
Charities and good causes came together on-line last Thursday to seek answers to fundraising problems caused by coronavirus lockdowns.
Around 40 people representing local charitable groups logged on to the Town Mayor’s Virtual Charity Evening to hear speakers stress the need for contact and collaboration between volunteers and organisations that can provide assistance.
The session was organised by town mayor Cllr John Colegrave for charities and help groups that operate in Banbury.
Sir Tony Baldry, Banbury’s High Steward, hosted the event.
Speakers included Brian Buchan (Vice Lord-Lieutenant of Oxfordshire), Amanda Ponsonby M.B.E. (High Sheriff of Oxfordshire), Angela Cristofoli (Oxfordshire Community and Voluntary Action), Adrian Sells (Oxfordshire Community Foundation), Keith Davies (Citizens Advice), Bee Myson (Age Friendly Banbury), and Tim Tarby-Donald (Charity Ninja).
Amanda Ponsonby said: “Covid-19 has been devastating for everyone but if communities pull together, we can come out of it on a positive note.”
Angela Christofoli said the OCVA could help on a range of subjects including funding and filling in grant application forms. She said funding was available but a lot of organisations wanted it.
Other speakers reinforced the togetherness theme.
Cllr Colegrave said: “This meeting is to let volunteers know they are not alone and that help is at hand.”
Banbury Town Council continues to offer emergency grants to help local good causes cope with the effects of the virus restrictions.
Cllr Colegrave added: “It is important – when coronavirus allows – that people get back together as soon as possible. Banbury Town Council is continuing to maintain its parks and play areas so that fundraising events can be held when the time is right.”
Published: by the Banbury FM News Team
