Cambridge Aid

Cambridge Aid is a registered charity (Charity number 204327) based in Cambridge, United Kingdom, dedicated to providing financial assistance to individuals and families in crisis within Cambridge and its surrounding villages. Established as a point of last resort, the charity offers grants to help alleviate poverty, meeting essential needs and maintaining the dignity of those experiencing social distress or financial hardship. It operates with a focus on rapid and flexible response, minimal overheads, and partnerships with local organizations, trusts, and individuals[1][2][5].

History

The origins of Cambridge Aid date back to 1880 with the formation of the Cambridge Charity Organisation, which succeeded the Cambridge Mendicity Society. The early mission was to relieve poverty in the Cambridge area through coordinated charitable efforts. Notably, the organisation was inspired and led by prominent figures such as Henry Sidgwick, a philosopher and economist, and his wife Eleanor Sidgwick, who was related to Arthur Balfour and served as the second Principal of Newnham College. The charity drew strong support from Cambridge Colleges, local churches, and town officials such as the Poor Law Guardians.

The initial structure included a Sub-Committee that met weekly to oversee practical work and employed a salaried agent for home visits, predating the establishment of the NHS and Social Services. Early assistance provided by the organisation included grants, pensions, and repayable loans, with provisions to offer bread to needy wayfarers on-site[5].

Activities

The core activity of Cambridge Aid is to assess individual needs and provide appropriate financial support in cases of social distress or hardship. The charity primarily assists children, young people, the elderly, people with disabilities, and the general population facing poverty or urgent financial difficulties. Grants are typically made through referrals from various organisations that may be addressing the underlying causes of distress while Cambridge Aid provides immediate relief[2][3][5].

Governance and Funding

Cambridge Aid is governed by a board of ten trustees who oversee the charity’s operations and meet regularly to consider applications for support. The charity relies on donations from local organisations, trusts, charities, and individual donors to fund its grants. It has a small volunteer base and does not remunerate its trustees. Financial transparency is maintained through regular reporting and published annual accounts.

For the financial year ending 31 December 2023, Cambridge Aid reported a total income of approximately £178,403, which included a government grant of £14,568. Expenditure for the same period was about £189,802[2].

Recognition and Impact

The charity is recognized for its role as a swift and compassionate aid provider in the Cambridge community, offering essential support with low administrative costs. It serves as a vital resource for individuals facing emergencies and financial crises, ensuring immediate needs are met while other agencies work on long-term solutions[1][5].

[1] https://cambridgeaid.org [2] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/204327 [3] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/204327/what-who-how-where [4] https://www.cambscf.org.uk/funds/cambridge-street-aid/ [5] https://cambridgeaid.org/about/