Essex County Council has been awarded £1.422m from central government’s Emergency Assistance Grant for Food and Essential Supplies to support vulnerable families across Essex.

This money must be spent on food, essential supplies and support for those Essex residents – individuals, children and families – most in need and who have struggled due to the Coronavirus pandemic. It is anticipated that due to demand the grant will be spent within 12 weeks.

“We know that the last few months have been really tough for some of our residents and finding money for basic essentials has been difficult.” ~ Cllr Louise McKinlay

Cllr Louise McKinlay, Cabinet Member for Children and Families, said: “We know that the last few months have been really tough for some of our residents and finding money for basic essentials has been difficult. The County Council has worked to provide ongoing support throughout the pandemic and this additional funding will ensure that work can continue as we reach out to our most vulnerable residents.”

Essex County Council will use £1.193m to support the following schemes and projects:

- The Essex Wellbeing Service (formally Essex Welfare Service)
- The Council for Voluntary Service and the provision of local food banks
- Citizens' Advice Bureau
- Holiday hunger and winter warmth initiatives
- Families known to Children’s Social Care
- The Essential Living Fund

Cllr McKinlay has decided to allocate the remaining £229k to the district, borough and city councils across the county. She said “I’m pleased that through our virtual community hubs, we are able to provide a bit more support to ensure this extra funding reaches those most in need. I am allocating this money to our partner councils and I look forward to seeing the difference it will make to families across our communities.”