This fund will initially operate for two years and will be overseen by the trustees (Parochial Church Council) of St Andrew’s Church but operated by a group of local people including representatives from:
- St Andrew’s Parish Church
- Town Council
- Holt Primary School
- Holt Rotary
- Holt Methodist Church
- Holt Neighbourhood Housing Association
- The Venue (Holt Community Centre)
Beginning in September 2022, a local appeal will be launched to raise money for the fund. Local people will be asked to contribute what they can, either as a one-off payment or where able, an annual or regular payment for each of the two years. The hope is that those that can, will give generously.
This fund is open to any resident living within the Parish of Holt with High Kelling and those families whose children attend Holt Primary School who are experiencing a financial crisis.
The Revd Canon Howard Stoker, Rector of Holt with High Kelling said: “It is a Gospel imperative to help people in need, and faced with a growing number of people experiencing a financial crisis, doing nothing was not an option. The seed for the Energy Support Fund was sown by a member of the congregation and with the support of the PCC, it has grown to include the support of a number of community groups and organisations, including the Holt Town Council. The Church is not a self-preservation society or an exclusive club and we feel quite strongly that the Parish Church is here to serve all the people of our community. We are committed to witnessing the love of God in Christ Jesus, by putting our faith into action. The Community Support fund not only demonstrates that the Church cares but more importantly it helps those in desperate need. We have currently raised approx £18000 to help those living in the parish or with children at the local community primary school who are experiencing a financial crisis. The fund will help meet energy costs over the next two years and will be accessed and distributed via the North Norfolk Food Bank (Energy).”
When will the fund be open?
Local people will be able to apply for support with their bills from October 31 2022 as energy costs begin to rise.
How will local people be able to apply for help?
If you need to apply for assistance you will be able to contact the North Norfolk Foodbank on 07826 376343 or by email. They will then approach the Community Fund for support.
Referrals may also be received from the North Norfolk District Council Help Hub and the local Citizen’s Advice Bureau.
