Woody’s Lodge Secures £20,000 Grant from Garfield Weston Foundation

Garfield Weston Foundation to Expand Support for Veterans and Emergency Service Personnel in Wales with a £20k grant

Woody’s Lodge, a leading charity dedicated to supporting military veterans, emergency service personnel, and their families across Wales, is thrilled to announce that it has been awarded a £20,000 grant from the Garfield Western Foundation. This funding, pivotal for the charity’s mission, will support core operational costs and enhance the organisation’s ability to deliver critical services.

About Woody’s Lodge

Woody’s Lodge has established itself in Wales, providing a welcoming and supportive environment through its drop-in centres. These centres combat social isolation, financial strain, and difficulties in accessing essential services, which have been exacerbated by the rising cost of living. With this grant, Woody’s Lodge will ensure the continuity and expansion of its comprehensive support system, directly benefiting thousands of individuals.

Key Achievements and Impact

Over the Past Year

• Woody’s Lodge has recorded over 5,500 visits to its hubs, directly supporting 2,416 beneficiaries.
• The organisation has successfully facilitated the drawing down of £903,716 from the benefit system, providing significant financial relief to its beneficiaries.
• Beneficiaries report marked improvements in mental health, increased confidence, and a strengthened sense of belonging within the community.

Utilisation of the Grant

The grant will enable Woody’s Lodge to stabilise foundational operating costs, focusing efforts on securing sustainable financial resources through enhanced fundraising activities and corporate sponsorships. This financial support is crucial as the charity aims to:

• Cover essential expenses such as staff salaries, utility bills, and facility maintenance.
• Leverage social media and partnerships with community organisations to ensure services are accessible to all who need them.
• Further integrate local and veterans’ communities through volunteer opportunities, fostering collective resilience and a shared space for individuals to thrive together.

Commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI)

Woody’s Lodge is deeply committed to EDI principles, ensuring that its services are accessible to all, including underrepresented groups. The organisation actively incorporates EDI into its work, broadening its impact and enriching the support network within the community. Special projects are tailored to meet the specific needs of diverse beneficiary groups, fostering a more inclusive and understanding environment.

Partnerships and Collaborations

Woody’s Lodge collaborates with a diverse range of third sector and statutory organisations to provide the most appropriate and effective services. These partnerships are pivotal in creating a comprehensive support network that caters to the multifaceted challenges faced by beneficiaries, ranging from mental health support to financial advice and employment assistance.

Dedication to Well-Being

Woody’s Lodge is dedicated to enhancing the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of military veterans, emergency service personnel, and their families across Wales. By offering a variety of daily activities, a dedicated support team, and a comprehensive transport system, Woody’s Lodge has created a warm, welcoming, and secure environment for its beneficiaries.

A Message from the CEO

“We are grateful for the £20,000 grant from the Garfield Weston Foundation, which will empower us to continue supporting our armed forces veterans, emergency service personnel, and their families across Wales. This funding enables us to enhance our services and provide much-needed relief to our beneficiaries, building a brighter future for those who have served their country and communities.” – Graham Jones, CEO of Woody’s Lodge

How to Get Involved

Woody’s Lodge relies on the generosity and support of the community to continue its vital work. If you would like to get involved in our fundraising efforts, there are many ways you can help:

• Donate: Your financial contributions make a significant impact.
• Fundraise: Organise an event or participate in our fundraising activities.
• Volunteer: Offer your time and skills to support our mission.

Visit our website to learn more about how you can make a difference. Together, we can ensure that veterans and emergency service personnel receive the support they deserve.