A TOTAL of £1 million from dormant bank accounts has been given to an organisation which distributes grants to charities.
The Jersey Community Foundation received the donation from the government-administrated Jersey Reclaim Fund, which is made up of money from accounts in Jersey where contact has been lost with the customer for more than 15 years.
The JCF has placed the money into the Jersey Community Fund, which pools donations from a number of donors and makes grants to charities and community groups. Priority is given to organisations and groups supporting the following areas, found to be the most critical in Jersey following JCF’s 2022 local needs assessment:
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Community inclusion and tackling inequality.
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Caring for an ageing population.
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Addressing the impact of the cost-of-living crisis and poverty.
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Promoting mental health and wellbeing.
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Encouraging healthy living, including combating obesity.
As well as supporting the community, charities can use part of their grants to sustain or strengthen the resilience and sustainability of their organisation.
Chief Minister Lyndon Farnham said: “Charities and the voluntary sector play a central role in the life of our Island.
“I am aware of the ongoing challenges they face – with rising costs and growing demand – and have been determined to assist where possible.”
External Relations Minister Ian Gorst, added: “I’m pleased to announce our continued support for Islanders and our community through an additional distribution of £1 million from the Jersey Reclaim Fund.
“I’m grateful to all those financial services institutions who support its ongoing operation and enable the use of these funds. Partnering with JCF ensures that the money will be allocated swiftly and efficiently, assisting those most in need in Jersey.
“I extend my appreciation to the dedicated volunteers who contribute countless hours to various charitable causes in Jersey. It’s my hope that this distribution provides vital assistance, allowing the organisations they represent to continue their invaluable work to help others.”
