Jimbo’s Fund supported nearly 7,000 people in 2024

Jimbo’s Fund gives grants to Leeds community organisations to support people in the city to overcome adversity. The fund was set up in 2008 by Jimi Heselden, a local businessman, who wanted to make a difference for people in Leeds. Sadly, Jimi passed away in 2010, but Jimbo’s Fund continues his legacy.

In 2023, we gave Jimbo’s Fund grants to 29 organisations. They’ve delivered a range of activities to support local people, including wellbeing music groups, dance sessions and employment support. 

These activities have supported 6,913 people to better their lives. 

Grassroots Enterprise for Social Inclusion and Poverty Relief used their Jimbo’s Fund grant to pay their Project Support Worker and volunteers’ expenses at their Community Hub in Harehills. They helped 200 people with their financial counselling services and budgeting workshops, and job placement and CV writing workshops. 47 people even went on to secure jobs. 

One of their participants said “The support I received from the hub has been a game-changer for me and my children. Knowing that there are people who genuinely care and are willing to help has restored my faith in humanity. I now feel more equipped to face life’s challenges and create a brighter future for my family.” 

Since 2008, we’ve given out almost £18.5m in grants through Jimbo’s Fund. Those grants have supported more than 43,000 people.