A legacy of giving: Foyle Foundation major donation to support Yorkshire communities

At Two Ridings, we know that small charities and grassroots groups are the beating heart of our communities. They’re the ones tackling poverty, improving wellbeing, and building stronger, more connected places for everyone.

That’s why we’re thrilled to share some wonderful news.

The Foyle Foundation, a London-based charitable trust, has awarded us a £200,000 donation as part of their final legacy year. This generous gift will be distributed over the next three years through our existing grant programmes, providing small grants of £2,000–£10,000 to charities and community organisations across North and East Yorkshire.

For local groups, this means sustained support where it’s needed most. Whether it’s a food bank, a youth project, or a community hub, these grants will help keep vital services running and ensure that grassroots action continues to thrive.

The Foyle Foundation, established in 2000 to honour the wishes of Christina Foyle, has given over £185 million to UK charities and schools. As they complete their planned spend down in December 2025, they are leaving behind a remarkable legacy of philanthropy.

David Hall, Chief Executive of the Foyle Foundation, explained:

“In our final legacy year, we are proud to support the work of community foundations across the country, who carry out such important work in their local areas—often in hard-to-reach places and frequently without recognition.”

For us at Two Ridings, this donation couldn’t come at a better time. As we mark our 25th Anniversary appeal – Funding the Future – this gift strengthens our commitment to supporting the small charities that make a real difference in people’s lives across Yorkshire.

Celia McKeon, our Chief Executive, summed it up beautifully:

“We are honoured to receive this donation from the Foyle Foundation as part of their remarkable legacy of giving. The funding will add to our continuing support of small charities and community groups that make a real difference in people’s lives across our region for years to come.”

This is philanthropy at its best: thoughtful, impactful, and rooted in community. We’re proud to carry this legacy forward.