Celebrating 20 Years of Impact: The Link Foundation

Berkshire Community Foundation’s CEO, Geraldine Lejeune OBE DL, was delighted to attend The Link Foundation’s 20th anniversary celebrations and join supporters, volunteers and partners in recognising the extraordinary difference the charity has made to children and families across East Berkshire over the past two decades.

Since its founding by Una Loughrey in 2006, The Link Foundation has raised more than £2 million to provide practical support to families facing some of life’s most difficult challenges, including homelessness, poverty, disability, domestic abuse, illness and food insecurity.

Over the last 20 years, the charity has transformed the lives of thousands of children and families by providing everyday essentials that many people take for granted. From beds, bedding, cookers and fridges to clean clothes, shoes, school equipment, food and furniture, The Link Foundation has helped ensure that families in crisis have access to the items they need to live with dignity and stability.

Speaking at the celebration event, Gerry reflected on the organisation’s remarkable achievements and the lasting impact it has had across local communities. She paid particular tribute to the Foundation’s longstanding commitment to supporting charities that work with children and families affected by domestic abuse.

Through its generous and sustained funding, The Link Foundation has helped local organisations provide vital support that goes beyond immediate necessities. This includes funding for school uniforms and shoes, access to after-school activities, family holidays and other opportunities that can have a profound impact on a child’s confidence, wellbeing and future prospects.

For many families experiencing hardship, these seemingly small interventions can make a lasting difference, helping children feel included, participate in school life and enjoy experiences that might otherwise be out of reach.

The anniversary celebration was an opportunity not only to look back on two decades of achievement, but also to recognise the dedication of the volunteers, trustees, donors and partners whose support has made the charity’s work possible.

Berkshire Community Foundation is proud to support The Link Foundation through our grant-making services, helping ensure that funding continues to reach local charities and community organisations responding to the growing needs of families across East Berkshire.

As communities continue to face increasing social and economic pressures, the work of organisations such as The Link Foundation has never been more important. Its commitment to improving the lives of children and families remains a powerful example of what can be achieved through local giving and community partnership.

We warmly congratulate The Link Foundation on reaching this significant milestone and thank everyone who has contributed to its success over the past 20 years. We look forward to seeing the difference it will continue to make for children and families across East Berkshire in the years ahead.