The Leeds Community Foundation is the hub for local giving in Leeds. We work with individuals, families and companies to raise funds and then distribute them, in the form of grants, to local community and voluntary groups in the Leeds Metropolitan District.

Since we were established, in 2005, we have distributed over £13m to 1,500+ projects, getting money to where it matters most in the heart of our local community.

Needs In Leeds

Leeds is a friendly, welcoming and vibrant city with a multi-cultural population of approximately 800,000 people. It is the Regional capital of Yorkshire, the financial capital of the North of England and the 3rd largest city outside of London. The city centre is a great place to work, shop, eat and be entertained with attractions such as Harvey Nichols, Opera North and the Royal Armouries. At the same time, 65% of the city is greenbelt - we are the 2nd greenest city in Europe, second only to Vienna. At the same time Leeds is a city of great contrasts. 1 in 5 residents live in areas that have been classified as being amongst the 20% most deprived in the whole country. Life is very different in these parts of the city, areas such as Gipton, Harehills and Chapeltown for instance where life expectancy is up to 10 years less than in the more affluent suburbs. Problems such as long-term unemployment, under-achievement at school and health problems are prevalent in these areas.

A vibrant third sector

Fortunately for Leeds, we have a large and vibrant third sector with almost 3,000 community-based organisations. Some are quite small and entirely volunteer led - uniformed youth groups, sports projects and self-help groups for instance. Others are larger in size, with their own premises and staff. They all share one thing in common – they are making a difference in local communities and having a positive impact on the lives of local people. It is these kind of projects where the Leeds Community Foundation focuses its support. Organisations that can make a few hundred or few thousand pounds go an incredibly long way. People with a passion for making a difference in their local community.

Our plans for the future

Established in 2005, the Foundation has already been able to distribute just over £14m in grants to 1,500+ projects thanks to the amazing support from a wide range of donors and supporters who have, quite literally, given from between £10 and £10 million. With reductions in charitable giving and severe cuts in public sector income we now that our support is needed more now, than ever before, as local community organisations are finding it harder and harder to raise the vital funds they need to survive. Our aim is to continue to provide a cost-effective, personal and flexible way for businesses, individuals, statutory organisations and private trusts to invest in local community initiatives that are making a lasting difference to the lives of local people. Local Giving is a key part of our plans for the future as it allows us to showcase the work of local projects in the hope that you, too, will feel inspired by their work and want to support them.