LCR Cares was launched by Metro Mayor Steve Rotheram with Community Foundation for Merseyside, with the aim of raising £1m to support local organisations providing vital services to their communities

A fund set up to provide a cash lifeline for charities and community organisations across the Liverpool city region during the coronavirus crisis has now topped £700,000.

LCR Cares was launched by Metro Mayor Steve Rotheram in partnership with registered charity Community Foundation for Merseyside, with the aim of raising £1m to support local organisations providing vital services to their communities.

Now a donation of £120,000 from he National Emergencies Trust has boosted the fund Around 80 local groups and charities supporting the most vulnerable members of the community have now been handed a share of more than £330,000 in funding.

Last Friday (April 17) saw the award of a further 27 grants to organisations from across the city region receive funding for their vital work – from food banks in Wirral and Knowsley to advice and support networks in Halton and Sefton.

Mr Rotheram said: “It’s fantastic that we have passed the £700,000 mark on our way to our £1m target for LCR Cares, thanks to the generosity of individuals, businesses and organisations.

“It’s even better that we’re getting that money out into the community nearly as fast as it’s coming in. We’ve now given out more than £330,000 and we’re already hearing the human stories of the difference that is making.”

Rae Brooke, chief executive, Community Foundation for Merseyside, added: “In the early stages of this crisis the Metro Mayor did what we hope anyone in a position of leadership would do and that is take swift and decisive action for the benefit of those they serve.”

Community organisations can apply for grants by clicking here.