Jimbo’s Fund supports more than 9,700 people in a challenging year

In a year when the cost of living rose sharply, placing more households under increased pressure and stress, Jimbo’s Fund has been vital. Through 26 grants, the fund has supported over 9,700 children and adults through challenging circumstances. 

Jimbo’s Fund was set up in 2008 by a local businessman, Jimi Heselden, to make a difference for people in Leeds. The programme funds a broad range of projects and activities that support people from disadvantaged communities in the city. Sadly, Jimi passed away in 2010, but the programme continues to support local Community Organisations across Leeds, carrying on his legacy. 

Community Organisations are often a first port of call for local people. The grants from Jimbo’s Fund enable organisations to offer welcoming places and creative and flexible responses, that help people with what they need. The 26 grants made in 2022 offered a remarkable range of activities and support including advocacy, volunteering, equipment, job seeking, a clothing exchange scheme, youth work, befriending and an after-school club to name but a few! 

One organisation, The Canopy Housing Project, used their Jimbo’s Fund grant to renovate, retrofit and decorate eight properties, turning them into comfortable homes for people experiencing or facing homelessness. The work included insulating the properties, furnishing them and providing essentials such as beds and fridges. The renovation sites gave opportunities for unemployed people to learn new skills like carpet fitting, painting and decorating, and installing shelving and fittings. 

The Canopy Housing Project shared the story of J and T, who live in one of the properties. 

“J and T are both 18 years old with two children and were living in a one bedroom flat, where they slept on the floor in the lounge so the children could have a bedroom. Because of their young age they were struggling to secure a tenancy with landlords. Both parents contributed to finishing off, chose a beautiful colour scheme and furniture to suit them. T was heavily pregnant but both enjoyed the process and were keen to get involved. They now have their own bedroom for the first time in nearly three years! We put in high quality insulation to help with energy costs, give them help with the cost of living crisis and how to live well as a family in these challenging times.” 

Since 2008, Jimbo’s Fund has supported tens of thousands of people from across communities in Leeds, always responding to local people, issues and needs. We look forward to working with Jimi’s family to continue his amazing legacy for years to come.