£200,000 awarded to community groups making a 'real difference' in Preston
More than £200,000 has been awarded to community groups across Preston.
Community organisations were invited to apply for Cost of Living funding from Preston City Council in late 2025, with the initiative designed to help organisations strengthen or maintain the support they offer to Preston residents who are being adversely affected by rising living costs.
The local authority has now confirmed that 24 local groups have been awarded up to £10,000 each to help launch new initiatives or expand existing services that make ‘a real difference’ to local people.
The funding will support a broad range of projects that help people experiencing poverty, isolation, mental health challenges, substance dependency, homelessness, or fleeing domestic abuse.
It will also strengthen the work of organisations providing essential food support to residents most in need, with groups such as Preston Community Hub, Let’s Grow Preston, and Friends of Billington Lodge set to receive funding through this scheme.
The allocations also include support for groups offering accessible, high‑quality services for people affected by cancer - such as contributions toward heating and transport costs, symptom management support, and projects aimed at improving quality of life through leisure and wellbeing activities.
Councillor Peter Kelly, Cabinet member for Communities at Preston City Council said: "We know that the Volunteer, Community and faith Sector (VCFS) groups are doing fantastic work in the community to support residents. The grants we have awarded should further support and continue their work allowing them to deliver life-changing services.
“A huge thank you to all the organisations working tirelessly to support local people."