CrossCountry Trains Visits Cornwall Grant Recipients

The CrossCountry Trains community fundA sum of money made available for grant making, often with specific criteria/conditions. recently awarded 18 community groups across the county and we were delighted to welcome them to Cornwall to meet some of the incredible projectsA piece of work that delivers an output. they have funded.

The aims of this fund is to support community groups, charities and social enterprises across Cornwall, with priority given to projects based in towns where CrossCountry stations are located. These projects all focused on: education and employability skills; diversity and inclusion; social mobility; accessibility; or sustainability.

We were joined by Candice Dos Santos Hodgson, Project Manager, and Richard Gibson, Stakeholder Manager West & Wales, from CrossCountry Trains alongside Shannon, Lisa and Emma from CCF.

The day included visits to three exceptional organisations in the Bodmin area, each demonstrating the transformative impact of community support.

Our first stop was The Hugs Foundation, where we witnessed the remarkable therapeutic power of horses in supporting young children’s mental health through their carefully structured programme.

Next, we met with Julie, of Penhaligon’s Friends an organisation celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. Julie shared insights into their vital work supporting bereaved children, young people, parents, and carers throughout Cornwall. They provides a safe space for children and young people to connect with others who understand their experience, alongside practical resources to help them navigate their grief journey.

The day concluded at Equally Abled, where Kelvin showcased their vibrant social hub bringing together adults and teenagers with disabilities and additional needs.

Reflecting on the visit, Richard commented: “Just to say thank you for the tour of the three organisations we’ve helped support through our funding. Each showed just how passionate they were about their projects and the people who benefit from their work, and the difference this makes to the people of Cornwall.”

Candice added: “I just wanted to echo Richard’s thanks and say how much I enjoyed our day together. It was genuinely inspiring to see the passion and commitment the organisations brought to their work and brilliant to be able to see this first hand.”

Pictured: The Hugs Foundation