A new coronavirus disaster relief fund has launched and already raised over £20,000 to help vulnerable people during the outbreak.

Hertfordshire Community Foundation launched a new fund to rapidly support local charities and community organisations that are helping the most vulnerable people during the coronavirus outbreak.

Donations will become grants to voluntary groups providing care and support for elderly and vulnerable people hit by the social and economic impact of Covid-19.

The fund will work alongside the National Emergencies Trust’s coronavirus appeal to financially support vulnerable groups around the county.

Helen Gray, the foundation director for Hertfordshire Community Foundation, said: “Many local charities are struggling to maintain services during this global emergency.

“We have launched this appeal to help charities and community groups working with those considered to be the most vulnerable during this pandemic.

“At this time, many grassroots charities and organisations are facing unprecedented challenges and are under immense pressures as they try to support the most vulnerable people in our communities.

“We don’t know yet what the full effects of this pandemic will be on these groups who do such vital work, which is why we want to build a fund to help to support the most vulnerable people in our communities.

‘We call on the people of Hertfordshire to respond in this time of crisis and help us to ensure support reaches those who need it most.”

Donations can be made online at their Just Giving page, or can be transferred to:

Account name: Hertfordshire Community Foundation

Sort Code: 60-10-39

Account Number: 28592379