DOZENS of Somerset groups have been spreading warmth and cheer this Christmas thanks to grants from a dedicated pot.

Throughout this month, the Somerset Community Foundation (SCF) has awarded £28,500 to 64 community groups through a dedicated Festive Fund.

The grants, of up to £500, help grassroots organisations spread warmth and cheer through food, gatherings and activities over the festive season, supporting people who may otherwise feel isolated or alone.

“We know that the festive season can be challenging, and there are people in our communities who find it particularly difficult,” said Kirsty Campbell, senior programmes manager at SCF. “We’re delighted that this year we’re able to award £28,500 to the groups bringing local people together over Christmas at a time no one should feel alone.”

Activities supported by grants include Growing Space offering free wreath-making sessions in Wincanton, Somerset Opera hosting a festive concert, and Baltonsborough Volunteer Support Group and the Seniors Christmas Dinner, welcoming around 90 senior residents for food, music and games.

Meanwhile, the funding came at an exciting time for Crewkerne Community Kitchen, as the group is able to use its brand-new base for Christmas events ahead of officially moving in next month.

“Christmas can be a difficult time and our Festive Window is something that just brings a bit of joy over the winter months,” said group leader, Jess Wright.

“I’m a model-maker by trade and what we’re going to co-create is an aerial view of Crewkerne, as if Santa is flying over, with models decorated by people from different community groups.

“It’s a way for people to sit down and talk about their locality in a really positive way, and we want to reach as many groups as possible.

“This year we’re working with Lidl to give toys out at Christmas and we’ll have extra special things around the launch of our new space, including a drop-in workshop on how to keep warm this winter.

“In the new year our Community Fridge and Repair Hub will run from the new base and we’ll have Souper Bowl sessions for fresh warm food in the colder months.”

Meanwhile, at FordHaven, which provides a nurturing space for children to flourish, an SCF grant is helping fund a truly inclusive Christmas party.

“We’ve invited every single family who is part of the FordHaven community, from our youth clubs and holiday clubs to our home-ed groups,” said co-founder, Roxie Ford.

“So many of the children we work with have special educational needs and everything we do is shaped with them in mind.

“This year, we’ve planned something truly special. Santa will be there with a gift for every child, we’ll have a SEND-friendly disco and there will be a cosy festive spread for everyone to enjoy.

“Thanks to the funding we’ve received, we can open our doors to all our families without anyone having to pay a thing. It’s our way of celebrating, but also of saying a heartfelt thank you for being part of FordHaven, for trusting us, and for sharing your year with us.”

For more details, and to support projects across Somerset, donate at www.somersetcf.org.uk/giving.