Last updated at 20:12, Saturday, 21 November 2009

A Cumbria Flood Recovery Appeal has been launched to raise funds to support the individuals and communities devastated by the floods.

The appeal has been jointly launched by Cumbria Community Foundation and Workington MP Tony Cunningham and will focus on providing money for those experiencing financial hardship as a result of the floods.

The first donations have already started rolling in, with Nuclear Management Partners starting the appeal with £50,000.

Cumbria County Council has promised £50,000 and Allerdale Borough Council £25,000.

Allerdale leader Tim Heslop said: “We are committed to working together with all agencies on the massive recovery effort that we face in getting the county back onto its feet.

“As well as getting people back into their homes, the future of many small businesses and how we can help to ensure their survival is one of our top priorities.

“We also express our heartfelt thanks to everyone who is working tremendously hard to help others in these exceptionally difficult circumstances - especially those who are coming to terms with their own loss.”

Anyone who wants to donate cash can visit any branch of the Cumberland Building Society and the Furness Building Society.

Collections are also taking place in Whitehaven and Workington today and the foundation is taking calls from other people wanting to hold events and collections.

Alternatively, cheques made payable to the Cumbria Community Foundation can be sent to CCF, Dovenby Hall, Cockermouth, Cumbria, CA13 0PN.

The Cumbria Flood Recovery Fund will provide financial help for people who have been affected. The first phase of grant making will concentrate on the elderly, disabled and families with under fives.

The fund will also help community groups that are helping out with advice, information, counselling, and activities for children and young people.

Deb Muscat, acting director said, "The community foundation was able to make its first grants four days after the Carlisle floods. We expect to be able to the same again."

The foundation will not accept applications to the fund until Monday (Nov 23) when an application process and special grant allocation committee will be set up.

Anyone wanting information about the appeal and who and what will be eligible for funding, should log on to Cumbria Community Foundation's website www.cumbriafoundation.org or call the dedicated phone line 01900 820827.

First published at 08:58, Saturday, 21 November 2009
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk