CORONAVIRUS has caused severe distress, loneliness and economic hardship for many people living in Hampshire who are self-isolating or unable to work.

But to help voluntary organisations and community groups focus on supporting individuals suffering hardship during the outbreak a huge donation has been made.

Housing association VIVID has donated £125,000 to launch the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Community Foundation (HIWCF) ‘We’re All Together’ Fund.

HIWCF chairman Jonathan Cheshire said: “We would like to thank VIVID for being our first major donor, and for their amazing support and generosity for this campaign. The coronavirus pandemic is unprecedented, which has resulted in charitable groups in our area having to close or significantly amend their services. This loss of services is a risk to beneficiaries and the people of our region but has also had a huge impact on the groups themselves. Many local charities are now looking at severe income losses over the coming months which could jeopardise their future just when they are really needed.”

Along with the donation from VIVID, HIWCF is also contributing £100,000 from its reserves to encourage donations from those wanting to help.

“HIWCF is responding quickly to the crisis and we will ensure that the funding makes a real difference to people at their time of most need and can be distributed quickly. The need for local communities to help each other is more vital now than ever,” Jonathan added.

Mark Perry, chief executive at VIVID, added: “We understand the impact the coronavirus outbreak has had, and will continue to have, on communities, particularly the older and most vulnerable in society.

“It’s important everyone supports one another during this time and the ‘We’re All Together’ Fund is a great way we can help support and make a real difference to the lives of those most affected across our operating area. Through this we can manage our donation to focus on the innovative local projects and groups that are helping address the hardship caused by coronavirus. This includes helping the vulnerable with shopping, collecting prescriptions and offering a friendly voice to make people feel less isolated.”

Community groups can apply for funding by contacting VIVID, which will support them through the process and release funds quickly to help make a difference immediately.

To donated to the fund, go to virginmoneygiving.com/fund/AllTogether.