Local giving matters

Across North and East Yorkshire, one act of giving creates ripples that reach far beyond what we can measure.

Thanks to the generosity of individuals, businesses, councils, national government and trusts, Two Ridings has granted £2.4 million this year to 509 groups and individuals.

But the real impact isn’t in the numbers – it’s the warmth of a welcome, the spark of confidence in someone once forgotten, and the strength found in community. From food banks to youth clubs, mental health hubs to warm spaces, each group we support helps people feel safe, valued, and connected.

In challenging times, this work transforms people’s lives, bringing hope, connection, and dignity. Community groups become lifelines, second homes, and the heart of where people belong.

Behind every ripple is a donor, a supporter, someone who cared enough to give. Two Ridings is proud to be the bridge between that generosity and the community groups creating real, lasting change.

“Every day, someone in York, Hull, or Scarborough is facing some kind of hardship. And every day, because of people like you, someone finds warmth, a listening ear, and life gets better. That’s what your giving makes possible.” Celia McKeon, Chief Executive

Standing together in crisis

This year, from floods in Ryedale to riots in Hull, Two Ridings stood with community groups on the front lines. We delivered 88 rapid-response grants for flood relief and distributed nearly £40,000 to restore safety and trust in Hull.

In every crisis, community organisations lead, and with swift support, we help them rebuild, heal and strengthen their communities.

“Local organisations led the recovery with strength and care, and our funding helped rebuild lives. Thanks to strong community ties and a dedicated team, support was delivered quickly and showed the true spirit of our region.”

 

Growing stronger communities

Sustainable communities thrive on opportunity, connection, and care for our shared world. Access to learning and the power to shape their future help neighbourhoods flourish. By supporting local action that places the community at its heart, we’re helping create places that are not only resilient, but full of purpose and promise. This year, nearly half our funding supported Yorkshire communities to grow stronger and ready for the future.

Building brighter futures

When communities share food, warmth, and support, lives transform and hope grows. By investing in these lifelines, we’re helping ensure no one faces hunger or hardship alone. This year, 57 grants reduced poverty, created safe spaces, and offered vital support for people to thrive. Together, we’re building stronger, kinder communities where everyone belongs.

 

Building healthier, happier lives

Good health and wellbeing are shaped by many things – and connection is one of them. Across Yorkshire, we support local groups creating welcoming spaces where people come together, participate, and feel valued.
Through creative activities, gardening, and volunteering, we boost confidence, reduce isolation, and lift spirits. A quarter of our funding supports health and wellbeing, helping people live brighter, fuller lives every day.

Caring for our climate

Climate action starts with caring people. When local groups take steps to protect nature, reduce waste, and embrace renewable energy, they spark change that builds resilience and hope. This year, 31 grants supported grassroots climate efforts across the region – reducing carbon, restoring habitats, and inspiring action. Together, we’re building a cleaner, fairer future for all.

 

From the ground up | Building brighter futures in Yorkshire communities

In Hull, Scarborough, Selby, York, and Harrogate, something powerful is happening. Through our place-based community funds, local people are leading the change they want to see – supporting neighbours, lifting up young people, and creating spaces where everyone feels they belong.

These funds are more than pots of money, they are acts of hope, trust, and solidarity. With every donation, we’re not just funding projects; we’re backing people who are quietly transforming lives on their own doorsteps. Imagine how much more we can do, together.

Powering local change with community benefit funds

From Bridlington’s coast to the heart of the Dales, Two Ridings is working with wind farm providers to turn energy sector investment into real, local impact. Through community benefit funds, we’re helping grassroots projects thrive – fixing village halls, building playgrounds, supporting youth clubs, and backing green initiatives that protect our environment.

It’s a simple, powerful model: giving back to the communities hosting renewable energy and helping them grow stronger, greener, and more connected for the future.

Flexible funding transforming a youth club, and a town

When Thirsk Youth Club received £9,000 in unrestricted funding, we expected progress. What we saw was transformation.

In just a few months, young people discovered a lifeline – a safe, welcoming space where they could connect, grow, and thrive.
The organisation gained stability, complying with vital regulations, securing new premises, and laying the foundation for a sustainable future.

And across the town, the impact was clear: local police reported a drop in anti-social behaviour, and a renewed sense of pride began to take root in the community.

Unrestricted funding didn’t just support a programme. It strengthened the whole community.

As one team member shared:
“We’re told by the town council and police that the Youth Club is making a big difference. We see it too – in the children’s behaviour, wellbeing, and smiles. This funding didn’t just help us. It gave the whole town a lift.”