An innovative way to make a difference in York

York Community Fund

We know that York is an incredible city with great strengths and opportunities for many. To the outside world York is a success story; our history, hospitality and museums are known across the globe. But scratch beneath the surface and you see York is also a place of stark inequality.

The high cost of living in the city intensifies the impact of poverty, and housing costs are through the roof. In some of our neighbourhoods, 1 in 3 children regularly go to school feeling hungry.

That’s why we’re launching the York Community Fund, a unique initiative for the people and businesses of York to invest in our community collectively.

This is the fund for people who love York and want to support vibrant and purposeful community action that changes people’s lives. It’s a chance for York businesses that have flourished to give back. For individuals with roots in the city, but maybe living further afield, contributing to the York Community Fund is an easy and effective way to make a difference in the city.

The York Community Fund is all about making a tangible difference in York, directly funding the vital charities and community organisations that support local people and communities.

Two Ridings Community Foundation have partnered up with City of York Council, York CVS, Joseph Rowntree Foundation (JRF) and York Together to launch this fund collaboratively, with initial investment from JRF.

On Thursday 18th July 2024, the launch of the York Community Fund takes place at Merchants Adventurers’ Hall, York.  Celia, Two Ridings’ Chief Executive will talk about the fund’s purpose, its anticipated impact, and the critical need it addresses.

Community groups will showcase their impactful work and share their stories. We will welcome KYRA Women’s Project singing group, Tang Hall Community Centre and Next Door But One community theatre, along with many of the community leaders that work to make York vibrant, safe and connected.

We will ask attendees to share their thoughts on the fund’s key priorities
– Equalities and human rights
– Affordability; tackling the cost of living crisis
– Environment and the climate emergency
– Health and wellbeing

This celebratory evening, generously sponsored by Hunter Gee Holroyd and LGT Wealth Management, offers a wonderful opportunity to meet inspiring individuals, forge new connections, and enjoy delicious food and celebratory drinks.

When businesses and individuals invest in the York Community Fund, they can be confident their money is being used to create a fairer and healthier York for everyone.


To discuss contributing to the York Community Fund, either talk directly to Celia, our Chief Executive, or donate directly at York Community Fund.

If you are interested in joining us at the launch,  email us at [email protected].

The York Community Fund opens on Monday 19th August 2024. Check out Apply for Funding

Let’s make a difference together.