Pound Gates, an insurance broker for the removals and storage industry, has celebrated a decade of partnership and grant-making with its local Suffolk Community Foundation through the company’s Acorn Fund.

Over the past ten years, Pound Gates has proudly allocated grants totalling £50,000 to 34 charitable and community causes in Suffolk, England, demonstrating its commitment to fostering positive change in the local community.

The focus has been to support smaller community and grassroots organisations, aligned with the theme of Health & Wellbeing. This strategic approach ensures contributions genuinely make a difference in the lives of those in the local community.

Neil Matthews, Relationship Manager at Pound Gates commented: “Our staff have been integral to every aspect of this partnership. It’s heartening to see our collective dedication making a positive impact on the local community, while also strengthening the bonds within our team and with our valued suppliers.”

An impact analysis conducted by the Foundation in 2021 revealed that the collaborative efforts between Pound Gates and Suffolk Community Foundation have positively impacted over 4,000 lives. This significant achievement underscores the power of community and the transformative change that can be achieved through collaboration.

To commemorate this milestone, Pound Gates visited Ipswich Community Playbus, its most recent beneficiary, presenting them with a cheque for £1,800. Ipswich Community Playbus, a cherished institution in Ipswich for almost 50 years, has been fostering lasting friendships for children and adults alike. The Playbus, which travels to six locations in Ipswich each week during term time, provides a vital free service, primarily for low-income families who may otherwise struggle to access pre-schools and playgroups.

The funds presented to Ipswich Community Playbus will contribute to the renovation of 'Dennis', a replacement bus for 'Maggie', which has been in service for an impressive 21 years. Dennis is expected to hit the road in spring 2024, carrying forward the legacy of this incredible charity and allowing Maggie to enjoy a well-deserved retirement.

Looking towards the future, Pound Gates is actively exploring plans to increase the impact of the Acorn Fund, with a focus on reaching more local causes in need. The company expresses gratitude to everyone who has been part of this incredible journey, marking a decade of impactful contributions and anticipating many more years of positive change.

Photo:  The playbus ‘Maggie’.