A new coronavirus disaster relief fund has distributed over £50,000 to help local charities supporting the most vulnerable during the coronavirus pandemic.

Hertfordshire Community Foundation (HCF) has sent the money to charities and community organisations across Hertfordshire that are helping the most vulnerable people during the coronavirus outbreak.

These funds distributed grants of up to £2,000 to local frontline charities including Watford’s homeless charity New Hope, Electric Umbrella and various other groups around Hertfordshire.

Alongside funds raised by the foundation, an additional £50,000 came from Hertfordshire Police and Crime Commissioner David Lloyd.

Mr Lloyd said: “My role is not just about policing, I have a broad public duty to reduce crime and the fear of crime. Now more than ever the community needs to work together to overcome the challenges posed by COVID-19

“We already support many charities to deliver vital services to victims, the vulnerable and to support crime prevention and other work.

“Most of them are continuing to function extremely well during the crisis and I thank them for the flexibility and innovation they have shown.

“However, some have told me they are suffering difficulties or are facing additional pressures at the moment so I want to provide some additional help at this difficult time.”

Currently £50,000 has been ring-fenced by the Commissioner for the fund, but further money may follow if there is a demand.

Helen Gray, Foundation Director for HCF said: "It is a privilege for HCF to be able to play a role at this time – to give funding support to the local community and voluntary organisations that are doing an incredible job under enormous pressure to adapt their existing services and help even more people.”

"We want to make sure these crucial organisations have the funding they need to cope, and also to adapt their services during this crisis.

“We couldn’t do this without the generous support we have seen for both the NET appeal and our own local appeal.”

“Our frontline charities are facing unprecedented challenges and there are still many more organisations that need our help. If you would like to support the voluntary sector who are helping those in serious need please consider making a donation to Hertfordshire Community Foundation’s appeal. You can do so by visiting our website www.hertscf.org.uk.”

Last night (April 8), chancellor Rishi Sunak also announced a £750million scheme to help UK charities during the coronavirus pandemic.

A portion of the money will be allocated by government departments, while the rest will go towards small local charities.

To apply for a grant from the HCF fund visit http://www.hertscf.org.uk/coronavirus.