Following 19 years of raising money to help local people, the much loved Thurrock Community Chest will be joining forces with Giving for Thurrock (GiFT).

Giving for Thurrock is a place based giving initiative which brings together local people and fundraising to effect change and develop positive communities.

Already established since 2015, Giving for Thurrock has helped raise thousands of pounds which are available by application to individuals and communities based in the local area.

Combining both initiatives will enhance and strengthen community support across the borough.

Giving for Thurrock will continue and build on the legacy of Thurrock Community Chest whilst maintaining the ethos and mission of distributing funds to local good causes in an inclusive and equal way.

The amalgamation will see several of the trustees from Community Chest take up trustee positions at Giving for Thurrock bringing their invaluable experience and skills to the board.

Since its beginnings in 1999, Thurrock Community Chest has raised around £300,000 and they have done this with dedication, hard work and the support of local sponsors including Club Kingswood; Grays Athletic Football Club; Impulse Leisure; intu Lakeside; Orsett Hall; Thurrock Council; and their main sponsor Tony LeVoi, whose generous donation of a car each year as first prize made all the difference.

Carl Morris, founder member and President of the Thurrock Community Chest said “Since its foundation in 1999, the Thurrock Community Chest has helped countless Thurrock good causes and individuals. Amalgamating with Giving for Thurrock recognises new realities and ensures the name and ethos of the Thurrock Community Chest will live on.

"I would like to thank all the Trustees, groups, individuals and everyone else that have contributed to the longevity and success of the Thurrock Community Chest.

"I am looking forward to working with the new organisation”