“By empowering individuals with tools and knowledge, we can address inequalities, promote environmental sustainability, and bring people together in a truly meaningful way. This grant will make a tangible difference to the lives of many and help create a more sustainable and connected South Devon.”
These are the words of Mirella Ferraz, Project Manager for Network of Wellbeing, one of six community groups awarded a small grant thanks to funding we received from Mars Wrigley.
Mars Wrigley made the donation to support new or small-scale work by grassroots organisations. Just under £20,000 in funding was available for groups that share our mission of tackling inequalities and strengthening communities.
We distributed this funding through our small grants application process. The donation enabled us to fully or part-fund six grants of up to £5,000 for a variety of groups working in communities across Devon.
Network of Wellbeing received £5,000 to expand and enhance skillshare events that run alongside its Share Shed – a mobile “library of things” which travels to locations around South Devon. People are able to borrow items such as DIY tools or household appliances at low cost. Mirella explained that these skillshare events provide “opportunities for people to connect, learn practical skills, and reduce waste—all while fostering stronger, more resilient communities”.
Re:Store Axe Valley CIC received just under £5,000 to match-fund its coordinator role. This enabled the CIC to continue providing a range of community-based support services to isolated and disadvantaged people in Seaton and the Lower Axe Valley, in East Devon. These include mental health groups for young people, reading support groups and an “offload zone” for people dealing with complex issues.
Moretonhampstead Development Trust was awarded £5,000 to help fund a project manager to lead and develop its environmental sustainability strand. The funding has enabled the trust to improve local green spaces with more planting, organise volunteer working parties for its community orchard and community wetland, and arrange community events such as repair cafes and talks on community composting and green energy schemes. Penny Westlake, the project manager, is also working on activities with the local school. She said: “The funding is having an incredible impact on environmental projects in North East Dartmoor and making a difference for our community now and for the future.”
Seadream Education CIC received £5,000 to launch an eco-collective bringing together organisations in Plymouth which share a commitment to the environment and tackling climate change. Members of the collective support one another through online and in-person meetings, share resources and collaborate on events. The funding will be used for a launch event and to support the collective in delivering free activities to engage communities. Dr Juliette Jackson, the founding director of Seadream Education, said: “Your valued support will launch our collective into action and we are all really excited about the progress we can now make together in 2025.”
Proper Job Resource Centre CIO, based in Chagford, West Devon, successfully applied for a grant of £5,000 to run a series of workshops and events focused on sustainable living habits. These included a repair cafe and a birdbox building event. Alison Sallis, Proper Job’s CEO, said: “This funding enables us to broaden our outreach efforts and improve our educational programs aimed at protecting and preserving the natural environment. It helps us connect with a larger audience and create a lasting impact in our community. In these challenging times for funding, we are especially grateful for your support of community-led initiatives like this, which provide valuable opportunities for our rural communities."
Hakeford Woods CIO received £5,000 to run Wellbeing in Nature sessions for people struggling with their mental health or experiencing social isolation in North Devon and Torridge. The weekly sessions are run by qualified forest school leaders and activities include wellbeing walks, communal cooking, woodland management tasks and crafting.
Danielle Wills, Internal Communications Specialist at Mars Wrigley: “At Mars Wrigley, we’re proud to support grassroots organisations in Devon that share our focus of a healthy planet and thriving people to create lasting positive change. As a company with deep ties to Plymouth, giving back to our local community is something we truly value.”
Laura Cameron Long, Head of Development and Philanthropy at Devon Community Foundation, said: “It is incredible to see the breadth of work funded through our small grants. These grants are only possible thanks to donors like Mars Wrigley. Our donors trust us because they know we have an in-depth knowledge of groups that are deeply rooted in the communities they serve. And wherever possible we will match donations to make funds go further.”
If you want to make a positive difference in Devon we can work with you to make sure your money reaches the communities where it will have the most impact. Laura is always happy to have a chat about the different ways to give. You can get in touch via lcameronlong@devoncf.com or on 01884 906 685.
