Wales & West Housing Group Board supports charities working with ethnic minority communities
Two charities which challenge racism and work with minority ethnic communities across Wales, will share a £60,000 donation from Wales & West Housing Group.
EYST (Ethnic Minorities & Youth Support Team) Wales and BMHS (Black Asian and Minority Ethnic Mental Health Support) will each receive £10,000 per year for three consecutive years.
The funding will help EYST to continue its work supporting ethnic minority children, young people and families, community groups, refugees, asylum-seekers and migrants whilst continuing to challenge racism in wider society. It will help to increase awareness and understanding about the diverse communities living in Wales and improve community cohesion.
For the BMHS, a non-profit organisation dedicated to inspiring mentally healthy Black Asian and Minority Ethnic communities in Wales and supporting marginalised communities, the donation will help to fund community workshops to promote mental wellbeing and resilience within BAME communities.
Alex Ashton, Chair of the Board at Wales & West Housing Group, said: “Every year we choose charities that tackle issues affecting our communities and residents.
“This year we were keen to champion the work of two charities who make a real difference to the wellbeing of minority and marginalised young people, adults and communities.
“Ethnic minority groups have been disproportionally affected by both the pandemic and the cost-of-living crisis, so we wanted to offer our support to organisations working in this area.”
Alex Ashton, Chair of the Board at Wales & West Housing Group
“Both charities we have chosen are committed to equality and diversity, social justice and human rights, and making a positive difference in other people’s lives.
“EYST is one of the leading organisations working with ethnic minority children, young people, families and community groups in Wales. Every year its services help more than 5,000 individuals and it also plays an active role in supporting refugees, asylum-seekers and migrants.
“BMHS believes that mental health support should be accessible to all, regardless of background or ethnicity. It understands the challenges faced by individuals from BAME communities and strives to address their needs by working in partnership with health boards and local authorities to make sure services are culturally sensitive and inclusive.
“We hope that our contribution will enable these charities to have an even greater impact on the lives of those who need it most.”
Alfred Oyekoya, Director of BHMS, said: “We extend our heartfelt appreciation to the Wales & West Housing Group for their generosity and commitment to making a difference in our community.”
“The donation will enable us to expand our outreach initiatives and organise community workshops that promote mental wellbeing and resilience within the BAME community. We aim to create a supportive environment that encourages individuals to seek help, reduces stigma, and enhances mental health literacy.”
Alfred Oyekoya, Director of BHMS
“Wales & West Housing Group’s dedication to addressing inequalities aligns perfectly with the values we hold at BMHS. With their support, we are better equipped to provide vital mental health resources that empower individuals and promote holistic wellbeing.”
Helal Uddin, Co-Director of Ethnic Minorities and Youth Support Team (EYST Wales) added: “We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Board, senior leadership team and all the colleagues at WWHG for their support and for recognising the importance of EYST Wales work.”
“This donation will make a significant difference to EYST Wales, especially during these challenging times of rising living costs and utilities. As a charity we rely on generous donations to continue our work. The timing of the donation is very welcome, given the current situation.”
Helal Uddin, Co-Director of Ethnic Minorities and Youth Support Team (EYST Wales).
Bydd dwy elusen sy’n herio hiliaeth ac sy’n gweithio gyda chymunedau ethnig lleiafrifol ar draws Cymru yn rhannu rhodd o £60,000 gan Grŵp Tai Wales & West.