Kingsbridge Estuary Rotary Club has donated £250 to local housing charity the Cornelius Fund, as part of the club’s monthly grant scheme.

Because of the shortage of affordable housing, many people who need, or want, to live in the Kingsbridge area are forced to turn to the rental market to find accommodation.

Even here the initial costs are often high and, though the monthly rent may be affordable, the deposit is frequently impossible to afford.

The Cornelius Fund was established to help people in this position. It can provide the deposit, and first month’s rent if needed, as an interest-free loan, which clients are encouraged to repay with affordable payments over a negotiated length of time. The Cornelius Fund can also often help by supplying donated second-hand furniture and white goods to help clients furnish their accommodation.

The Cornelius Fund raises money through generous donations from local organisations and individuals, from bequests, church collections and various fund-raising events. The charity also has a shop at 6 Mill Street in Kingsbridge, is supported by donations of good second-hand clothes, books, household equipment, bric-à-brac and other items.

Donations of money, items for sale in the shop, and furniture/white goods for clients are always welcome, as are volunteers to help to man the shop. The Mill Street shop is the place to contact with any offers of such assistance, and also to collect an application form for a loan. After completion of the form an interview will be arranged as quickly as possible, so that offers of accommodation can be accepted promptly.

For further information about the Cornelius Fund, visit www.corneliuskingsbridge.org.uk. For details on Kingsbridge Estuary Rotary Club’s monthly grant scheme, visit www.estuaryrotary.org.uk.