Milton Keynes Community Foundation

Milton Keynes Community Foundation is a grant-making charity dedicated to creating a fairer community across Milton Keynes. They focus on sending funding where it’s needed most, especially supporting vulnerable, isolated, and disadvantaged people. Local projects—from grassroots initiatives to larger charities—benefit from their expertise, endowment, and targeted grant programmes.

What they do and how they help our community

They run a variety of grant programmes and rent subsidies for voluntary, community and cultural organisations. These help small groups, neighbourhood schemes and charities get the resources they need.
In 2024, they awarded nearly £891,000 in grants plus over £1.1 million in rent subsidies, supporting more than 100 organisations across Milton Keynes.
They also lead a “Funding Fairness” mission—ensuring all people are helped fairly, including those from diverse, under-represented or disadvantaged backgrounds.
A recent example: the Homeless Support Fund, a partnership with MyMiltonKeynes, helps rough sleepers and people without stable housing via grants for housing, skills, education and rehab.

How it impacts those in Milton Keynes who need it most
For people in our city who face hardship—due to poverty, homelessness, isolation, or lack of opportunity—the Foundation fills vital gaps. Organisations supported by MK Community Foundation often provide food, shelter, caring services, education, mental health or youth programmes. Because the Foundation funds many smaller groups, help reaches right into neighbourhoods. This is crucial for people from diverse backgrounds who may not be served by larger charities or public services.

How listeners can support or volunteer

Donate or become a Friend: Becoming a “Friend” through regular giving helps deliver steady support via pooled funds like the Cost of Living Fund. Even small donations make a big difference when pooled together.
Apply for or spread word about grants: If you run a community group or know one, MK Community Foundation makes it possible to apply for funding.
Volunteer: Roles include Ambassador, Mentor, Panel Member, Vital Signs researcher, Trustees, or administrative support. Use your skills to help shape decisions, support charities, or help capacity building.
Corporate involvement: Businesses can support via pro bono work, sponsoring projects, donating or encouraging staff volunteering. MK Community Foundation runs a Capacity Building programme that matches corporate skills with community needs.

MK Community Foundation is a vital link between generosity and action in Milton Keynes. Together, our listeners can help ensure that no one is left behind in our city.