County Durham Community Foundation works with businesses and individuals to create positive change by channelling their charitable giving to local communities in need, funding projects that fight poverty and enrich lives. Founded 28 years ago, the Foundation has awarded £57million in small grants to community groups and individuals in need, with a third of that total - £ 20.4million - awarded in the last five years alone. More than 600 groups in County Durham and Tees Valley benefit from vital funding every year, creating a ripple effect that touches the lives of thousands in the North East. In response to the cost-of-living crisis and inspired by our commitment to the global goals of the UN, the Foundation launched the Poverty Hurts Appeal in autumn 2022 and has fundraised almost £1million to fight excess winter deaths, reduce poverty-related misery, and help the one-in-three children and young people living in poverty in County Durham.