The ForCheshireWest Fund, managed by Cheshire Community Foundation, has made a profound impact on local communities throughout Cheshire West and Chester. This would not have been possible without the generous contributions from key local businesses, who continue to support essential projects aimed at tackling poverty, improving health and wellbeing, and fostering stronger, more self-reliant neighbourhoods.
In 2023 alone, over £100,000 was distributed across a diverse range of projects, benefiting thousands of residents. Forward thinking, locally headquartered businesses are playing an instrumental role in ensuring that the fund could deliver much-needed grants to community-led projects. Among these are Swansway Garages, Bolesworth, Ecolab, Encirc, Forviva Housing, and MBNA.
Swansway Garages
Swansway Garages, a family-run motor group based in Crewe, has long been committed to sustainability and supporting the communities in which they operate. Their focus on reducing carbon emissions, such as through their investment in energy-efficient LED lighting across their dealerships, reflects their dedication to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) goals. This drive to make a positive impact is mirrored in their philanthropic efforts, with a focus on supporting local children, families, and youth through various charitable partnerships, including Cheshire Community Foundation.
Bolesworth
Bolesworth, an iconic estate in Cheshire, is dedicated to sustainable land management and creating positive social value. As a key donor, their support has helped the ForCheshireWest Fund enhance community spaces and fund local projects that align with their mission to protect and enhance the local environment, while driving economic and social benefits.
Ecolab
Ecolab, a global leader in water, hygiene, and infection prevention solutions, takes its environmental and social responsibilities seriously. Their contributions to the ForCheshireWest Fund reflect their broader commitment to sustainability and community development. Ecolab’s initiatives focus on helping businesses achieve ambitious sustainability goals, such as reducing water and energy use, while also supporting local communities through education and empowerment projects.
Encirc
Encirc, one of the UK’s largest glass manufacturing companies, is deeply committed to reducing its carbon footprint and improving sustainability across its operations. By supporting the ForCheshireWest Fund, Encirc has helped tackle key issues such as poverty and unemployment, aligning with their vision of building a better future not just for businesses, but for the communities they serve.
Forviva Housing
Forviva Housing has a strong history of investing in communities by providing safe, affordable housing and promoting wellbeing. Their involvement with the ForCheshireWest Fund enables local charities to deliver essential services, particularly those aimed at alleviating the challenges of homelessness and poverty.
MBNA
MBNA, a prominent financial services company headquartered in Chester, has been a generous supporter of the ForCheshireWest Fund, as well as being a founding donor to Cheshire Community Foundation back in 2012. Their commitment to corporate social responsibility is evident through the MBNA Community Investment Programme, which has invested over £1 million in 2023 to support organisations across Chester and the wider northwest. This programme focuses on enhancing opportunities for disadvantaged groups, engaging communities, and funding transformative initiatives. MBNA’s dedication to fostering inclusive, safe environments and enriching the lives of local residents aligns seamlessly with the fund’s mission to empower communities and improve lives throughout Cheshire West and Chester.
We at Cheshire Community Foundation are hugely grateful for the incredibly generosity of these local businesses and would like to publicly thank them for their support. It is truly rewarding to work with people who demonstrate such strong values and enthusiasm for partnering with us, as their local expert in ESG.
Read more about the charity projects here.
Together, Making a Difference
Thanks to the support of these businesses, the ForCheshireWest Fund has been able to grant over £100,000 to local charities and community groups. From supporting mental health programmes for young people to providing crucial financial advice to struggling families, these contributions have made a tangible difference in the lives of Cheshire West’s most vulnerable residents.
On behalf of the communities and projects supported, we extend our deepest gratitude to Swansway Garages, Bolesworth, Ecolab, Encirc, Forviva Housing, and Sykes Cottages. Your commitment to social responsibility is changing lives and helping Cheshire West communities to thrive.
For more information on how to get involved or support the fund, contact us.