Open Collective
Open Collective
Loading
Financial update: funds exhausted for May, waiting list now in operation
Published on May 6, 2021 by Newham Solidarity Fund

Dear Neighbours,

Further to the update that was shared on 29 April, this message is to notify you that no further grants can be made from the fund this month unless we receive further donations.

We currently receive around £1000 in regular donations at the beginning of the month, and approximately 60 people apply for £50 grants each month, creating a deficit. For a while this deficit was cushioned by the money raised as part of the pan-London solidarity fundraiser (we received about £3000), but we are now reliant on regular and one-off donations.

We have opened a waiting list that prioritizes people who have applied to the fund less than 4 times previously. If further donations this month allow us to make grants, they will go to people who have previously made 3 or fewer applications to the fund in the order that they applied. 

As per the previous update, from the 22nd of each month neighbours who have applied 4 or more times will be eligible, and they will be added to the waiting list behind those who have applied 3 or fewer times.

Thank you for your understanding and patience. We hope to increase the financial capacity of the fund in the coming months, but until then please apply early to increase your chance of receiving a grant.

In solidarity,

Newham Solidarity Fund admins

Usman Ghani

Posted on May 6, 2021

But I don't have to work I don't have money and I have to pay my bill it's very important for me if I don't pay they will block my phone please help me about this ,,
I hope this month I can get £50 from Newham solidarity fund

Robin White

Posted on May 6, 2021

Hi Usman,

We're so sorry about this situation and we wish that we could provide you with a grant immediately, but we are not in a financial position to do so. Please see my comment on your most recent expense for your position in the waiting list.

Would you like to discuss your circumstances by phone or email? If you're struggling with debt or bills there might be services who could support or we could help you to advocate for relief with providers. If you'd like to discuss this please share your contact details (via email or on your expense, not here) and we can arrange to speak.

Again, I'm sorry about this but the balance of the fund is very low.

Best wishes,

Robin