We are thrilled to share some fantastic news - The Dorothy Parkes Centre has received a series of generous grant awards in recent months.

These vital funds will help us continue delivering a wide range of projects, support services, and community initiatives. Here's a closer look at the support we've received and how it will make a difference:

April: Supporting Spaces and Growing Gardens

In April, we were awarded £31,322 by The Metal Closures Limited Staff Welfare Fund. This generous grant included:

• £10,000 for new furniture
• £21,322 for our Community Allotment, supporting the project through to September 2026

Thanks to this funding, we’ve revitalised our main hall with new tables, chairs, storage trolleys, and blinds - creating a fresher, more welcoming environment. Our previous furniture was gifted to local community groups, ensuring nothing went to waste.

May: Cooking Up Family Fun

In May, we were delighted to learn that we were runners-up in the Tesco Blue Token Public Voting Scheme, receiving £1,000 from their Stronger Starts Fund. This funding will allow us to host family cooking sessions in our kitchen during February 2026 half-term, offering fun and educational experiences for local families.

June: Supporting Local Youth

In June, we were awarded £3,804 by the West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner. These funds will support the delivery of a BoxClever Mentoring Programme, aimed at young people in our area who are either involved in or at risk of entering the criminal justice system. The programme will begin in September and provide vital support and guidance to help change lives.

July: Creativity and Connection

July was another exciting month:

• Sandwell Council awarded us £9,020 through their Small Grants for Recovery Projects scheme. This will fund Life Thru the Lens, a free 10-week filmmaking course starting in September, designed to support adults recovering from drug and/or alcohol misuse.
• Hubbub granted us £3,000 to reconnect communities through food. We’re delighted to announce the return of ‘Soup and Social’, which will run for 24 weeks starting this autumn, providing a warm meal and welcoming space for conversation and connection.

Additional Grant Support

In addition to the above, we’ve also been fortunate to receive generous contributions from the following organisations:

• The Bob Willis Fund – £5,000 (Loss Matters project)
• Saintbury Trust – £2,000 (Core funding)
• Cole Charitable Trust – £2,000 (Core funding)
• Lord Austin Trust – £3,000 (Core funding)
• GJW Turner Trust – £6,000 (Core funding)
• Baron Davenport’s Charity – £2,000 (Older People’s support)
• Harborne Parish Lands Charity – £4,620 (Older People’s support)

Thank You

Everyone at the Dorothy Parkes Centre extends heartfelt thanks to all of our funders. Your continued support allows us to develop innovative projects, respond to local needs, and bring people together. These grants are not just financial - they’re a lifeline that enables us to create a stronger, more connected community.

Together, we’re making a real difference. Thank you.