An innovative community project which gives local charities and organisations a chance to make a bid for funds is gaining momentum in Tonbridge thanks to a group of kind-hearted volunteers. It will be the first of its kind in Kent when it launches next month.
Eat Vote Give encourages residents to group together to support public-spirited enterprises.
Tonbridge resident Ravi Athwal, one of the team behind the venture, explained how the community scheme is run along the lines of a successful American project in Michigan, where a simple supper is served with diners contributing £5 each.
An inaugural event is being held at Juddians Rugby Club in Tonbridge on June 29, when three local groups or causes make their pitch for why they should be supported with their venture.
They each have four minutes, without the aid of using technology, to convince the audience why their cause should receive the funds on offer.
Mr Athwal said: “We set this up as a group of residents who are very passionate about projects in West Kent, and we thought it would be a good way for people to find out about things that are happening in the area.
“It’s partly inspired by the Detroit Soup scheme in America, and a church initiative to help homeless people.
“The concept is based around all the money received on the night going to a winning project that everyone votes for. It can be anything at all, so long as it is something for the community.”
He added that the group is still seeking potential candidates, as well as those who may be able to assist in providing food, or future venues for the project.
An initial fundraising quiz for the scheme takes place at the Angel Centre on Friday, May 20. For more information, visit: www.eatvotegive.com
