Local community groups receive donation to support good works projects

SuperValu and Centra, part of Musgrave Northern Ireland, have awarded their first set of £1K donations through their £40K Big Community Giveaway fund to community groups across the region.

Two of the recent organisations to be awarded a donation were Foyle Search and Rescue and Dungiven Men's Shed.

Foyle Search and Rescue are a registered, voluntary based charity in Derry, that search for people in need on the River Foyle.

Foyle Search & Rescue volunteer Dawn Grieve said: “This donation will mean a lot to the charity and will go straight to use in continuing the lifesaving work that we do whether it be to purchase equipment or maintaining training standards required. We are very thankful for this support.” 

The Men's Shed group aims to advance the social needs, health and well-being of men living in the Dungiven area, providing a sports room, workshop, and a range of programmes, training, and events.

Raymond Brady, Dungiven Men’s Shed co-ordinator, said: “This donation will make a massive difference to the Men’s shed. It will enable us to purchase the equipment required by the men to enhance some of their activities such as guitar classes, woodwork, metalwork, gardening and art classes.

"The donation will enable us to continue to provide somewhere for men over 18 years of age to keep active and put their practical skills to good use, as well as having the chance to develop new friendships, have a coffee and a chat.”

Desi Derby, Director of Marketing at SuperValu and Centra said: “We’re committed to supporting local now more than ever before. Our community organisations are working hard to make a positive impact, but they need our support.

Raymond Brady, Dungiven Men’s Shed co-ordinator visits SuperValu Dungiven where he is presented with a donation of £1,000 by staff member Mary Kelly, as part of the SuperValu and Centra £40K Big Community Giveaway.

“We’re delighted that Foyle Search and Rescue and Dungiven Men's Shed have both received one of our 40 Big Community Giveaway donations which will help them make a real difference in their area. It’s just one way that we can help to support and give back in the communities where our stores are located.”

Applications are still open, and SuperValu and Centra are encouraging customers to nominate organisations, charities and other not-for-profit groups that are making a difference in their communities.

Customers can nominate a local group or charity until 8 December, by visiting their local SuperValu or Centra store, where they will be invited to scan a QR code and fill in their details online.

Applicants must demonstrate the difference the group has made in their community, why they deserve the funding and what the donation will be used for.