Richmond Council has been awarded a £124,000 government grant to support residents struggling to afford food and essential supplies.

The fund is available for charities and voluntary groups working to ensure people don't go hungry amid the Covid-19 pandemic.

Over the next few weeks, the council will work closely with charities and groups who have been directly providing food or funding to access food, to identify their needs.

Groups will then be able to apply for up to £10,000 – although larger awards will be considered.

Funding should be for:

• Cash or vouchers for individuals and families towards the cost of food and/or essential items
• Advice or information to help residents manage their situation and access longer term support e.g. benefits or debt advice
• Logistics including transport, storage, equipment and other items which will build organisational capacity in delivering this support.

Read more: Vast scale of foodbank's mission to feed 300 Richmond residents a week

In addition, the council said it will work with the social enterprise Achieving for Children to ensure that families, care leavers or those at risk of homelessness, are also able to access the funding.

Cllr Michael Wilson, Spokesperson for Communities, Equalities and the Voluntary Sector, said: "Since the start of the pandemic, the response to this crisis from local volunteer groups has been brilliant.

"Thousands and thousands of food parcels have been delivered to people all over the borough.

"And sadly, as the furlough scheme comes to an end, we will undoubtedly see a rise in unemployment, therefore we anticipate that the demands on food will continue.

"Our local groups have been working closely together to share food supplies and we are keen to support this ethos through this funding.

"I'd urge groups to apply as soon as possible, so we can start making sure funds get to where they are needed most."

Visit the council website for further information about the eligibility criteria and to apply.

Households with children affected by Covid-19 and experiencing financial hardship can apply to the Richmond Covid-19 Hardship Fund for supermarket vouchers.

The council also provides grants through the Local Assistance Scheme.

For further advice and guidance on benefits, debt advice and entitlements, contact Citizens Advice Richmond.

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