Celebrating the Heart of Yorkshire fund and the incredible community organisations making a difference
Last week, we gathered at the beautiful Selby Abbey to celebrate the amazing community groups that have been supported by the Heart of Yorkshire Fund. It was a truly special evening, filled with heartwarming stories of kindness and determination, highlighting the incredible impact these groups have on people’s lives every day.
It was a night to reflect on the hard work and dedication of the wonderful people behind these organisations and a reminder of the real value of local giving. We heard firsthand how the funding has made a meaningful difference to the communities across the Selby area.
We heard from three of the groups who’ve benefited from the Heart of Yorkshire Fund, including Home-Start Goole and Selby, The Clothing Bank, and Community Furniture Store – Selby. Each shared their own stories about the people they help, the challenges they face, and how the fund has helped them continue their vital work.
The story shared by The Clothing Bank was particularly touching. Their team works to ensure that anyone who walks through their door can find the clothes they need to live with dignity. Whether it’s a school uniform for children to feel like they fit in, a smart outfit for a job interview, or warm clothing to get a family through winter, their work is a lifeline for so many.
Home-Start Goole and Selby also shared how they support families in need. They spoke about the difference their services make for parents and children and how the Heart of Yorkshire Fund allows them to continue offering this essential help to those who need it most.
The Heart of Yorkshire Fund was established thanks to a generous donation from the former Selby District Council, and it’s creating a lasting legacy. This fund does more than just provide financial support; it helps community organisations cover their core costs, enabling them to carry on their vital work throughout the year.
The event was a reminder of the many groups making a real difference in our communities, from 1st Tadcaster Brownies and Camblesforth Methodist Church to Cawood Cricket Club and Sherburn in Elmet Community Trust. These groups are providing essential services, from supporting vulnerable individuals to offering activities that bring people together and build community spirit.
It’s easy to take these groups for granted, but they are the backbone of our communities, and we are proud to help support them. They are the ones offering a helping hand, creating spaces for people to connect, and making a real difference in people’s lives.
Looking ahead, we are excited to continue supporting the incredible groups working across North and East Yorkshire. The stories shared at this event highlighted just how important it is to keep supporting these organisations, not only through funding but also with encouragement and a shared belief in the power of community.
The next round of the Heart of Yorkshire Fund opens for applications in June 2025, providing further opportunities for organisations to access vital funding.
The groups making a difference through the Heart of Yorkshire fund are: 1st Tadcaster Brownies, Camblesforth Methodist Church, Cawood Cricket Club, Community Furniture Store (Selby) Ltd, Hensall Parish Council, Home Start – Goole and District, Move the Masses, NLY Community Sport Ltd, Our Space Selby, Parkinson’s Care and Support UK, Roots, Selby and District Scouts, Selby District Peter Pan Nursery, Sherburn in Elmet Community Trust, Sherburn Visiting Scheme, Sleepsafe Selby, Spirit of Christmas, Stutton Social Committee, Tadcaster and Rural CIC, Talking About Loss, The Clothing Bank.
Finally, we want to thank our sponsors, Drax Group UK and Escrick Park Estate, whose ongoing support makes events like this possible.
Read the 2025 Heart of Yorkshire Selby Impact Report