Community Activities
James Brown & Sons is celebrating a significant milestone after the James Brown & Sons Community Fund reached £100,000 in funding awarded to local organisations across Belfast.
Since launching in 2021, the Community Fund has supported a wide range of projects that strengthen communities, tackle social challenges and improve the lives of people of all ages. From helping families access affordable food and supporting older residents to reducing isolation and creating opportunities for children and young people, the fund has made a positive impact across the city.
James Brown, grandson of the business’s founders, said:
“James Brown & Sons has been part of Belfast communities for more than 120 years. Through the Community Fund, we have been able to support local organisations whose work makes a real difference to people every day.
Reaching £100,000 is an important milestone and an opportunity to recognise the dedication of the staff and volunteers behind these projects. Their commitment, local knowledge and hard work help ensure this funding delivers meaningful benefits where it is needed most.”
Supporting local people and local projects
Over the past five years, dozens of community groups have received funding to help deliver initiatives that address local needs and create lasting benefits.
Among them is In This Together, which operates a social supermarket serving communities across East and South Belfast. With 1,339 registered households, the organisation’s Fill A Fridge campaign helps families access everyday essentials such as milk, cheese, butter and eggs at affordable prices.
Jill Lamont, Executive Director of In This Together, said:
“Working in partnership with a local farmer, we provide quality, farm-fresh produce while supporting a local business and strengthening our community.”
The fund has also supported Engage With Age, whose Active Ageing Together project helps older people stay active, connected and engaged within their communities. Funding has contributed towards venues, materials and transport, while also supporting the organisation’s Dementia Friendly East Belfast What’s On Guide.
Michelle Bolton, CEO of Engage With Age, said:
“We have been able to reach over 120 older people in our local neighbourhood, helping to improve confidence, wellbeing and independence.”
Meanwhile, Walkway Community Association has used funding to support its summer scheme, providing educational trips, healthy meals and creative activities for more than 100 children over two consecutive years. The project has offered new experiences for young people while helping to ease financial pressures on families during the school holidays.
The organisation also received support for its Christmas Hamper Appeal.
Rachael Davison of Walkway Community Association said:
“Additional funding enabled us to provide 60 family hampers and support older residents, helping to reduce hardship and social isolation during the festive season.”
A lasting impact across Belfast
Reflecting on the milestone, James added:
“These are just three examples of the many projects supported through the Community Fund. Together, they demonstrate how relatively small grants can help local organisations expand their activities, reach more people and continue providing valuable services within their communities.”
Established in 2021 by Belfast funeral directors James Brown & Sons, part of the Funeral Partners family of businesses, the Community Fund was created to support projects that make a positive difference across local communities.
As the fund reaches the £100,000 mark, James Brown & Sons looks forward to continuing its support for the organisations, volunteers and community leaders who work tirelessly to improve life for people across Belfast.
To learn more about the James Brown & Sons Community Fund and the projects it has supported, visit the Community Fund page of our website.
Pictured: Barbara Wilson, Funeral Manager, with James Brown and Beverley Brown of James Brown & Sons, marking the Community Fund’s £100,000 funding milestone.