Voluntary groups across Kirklees have received a £400,000 cash windfall over the last seven years.

The money has come from Kirklees Community Foundation which receives huge donations from kind-hearted people and businesses and then gives out grants.

The figure emerged as it was revealed that Community Foundations have collectively distributed one billion pounds to local charities.

Last year alone they distributed £77m in grants which helped 4.7 million people in situations ranging from floods to fuel poverty to food banks.

Paul Johnson, Manager of One Community, the Kirklees Community Foundation, said: “Since launching in 2010 the Foundation has grown successfully and we now manage 18 funds and have awarded over £400,000 in grants to local voluntary groups.

“Public funding for Kirklees voluntary groups has now all but ceased and to counteract this the Foundation has recently launched a match funding challenge which will double the first £50,000 of any new donation utilised to establish a fund with One Community.”

Just one example of a group which has been helped is Walpole Tenants and Residents Association in Crosland Moor which received a three year grant of £2,970 each year to enable local children to attend a Forest School. A Forest School gives youngsters the chance to achieve and develop confidence and self-esteem through hands-on learning in woodland or a natural environment with trees.

Fabian French, Chief Executive of UK Community Foundations, said: “At UK Community Foundations we’re proud to work with incredible local charities day in day out. We understand the needs of the communities we work in and direct grants to causes that will meet that need and will make the biggest difference.”

Support your local Community Foundation and help us reach two billion pounds so we can continue to support local communities.

Community Foundations are 46 independent charities firmly rooted in local communities. Each Community Foundation has an in-depth understanding of local need and is an expert in making grants and giving advice to small, local charities and community groups to address that need.