At MSV, we believe that small acts of kindness can make a big difference. That’s why we created the Kindness Fund—a grant designed to support local projects that bring communities together, tackle isolation, and improve wellbeing.
Over the past year, the fund has helped 25 incredible projects across our neighbourhoods, from community gardens and creative workshops to mental health support and social activities. These projects have transformed lives, created safe and welcoming spaces, and strengthened connections between residents.
Below, you’ll find inspiring stories from past successful projects as-well-as ongoing initiatives.
Whether you’re a resident looking to take part, a volunteer wanting to help, or simply interested in the impact of the Kindness Fund, we hope these stories show the power of community-driven change.
Ongoing Supported Projects
Brotherhood Peace Garden Project
Moss Side & Hulme
Beneficiaries: Over 300 community members, including MSV tenants, volunteers, and children.
Aim:
The Brotherhood Peace Garden is an essential community space that provides gardening workshops, social prescribing sessions, and a Saturday club for children.
How to Get Involved:
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Attend gardening sessions to learn new skills.
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Volunteer to support food-growing workshops.
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Join the Saturday club for children.
Kindness Fund Contribution: £1,000
Pear Drop Garden
Moss Side
Beneficiaries: 40 households (~120 residents), local families, and volunteers.
Aim:
Pear Drop Garden has been transformed through community-led volunteer days, tackling anti-social behaviour and improving green spaces. However, the uneven and unsafe flooring is a hazard, preventing children from playing and limiting the garden’s use for events. The Kindness Fund is supporting a new, safe patio floor to make the space more accessible.
How to Get Involved:
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Join the fortnightly volunteer sessions to help improve the space.
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Follow the project’s progress on Instagram: @peardropgarden.
Kindness Fund Contribution: £1,000
Past Successful Projects
Let’s Get Sociable
Alexander Briant Court, Bolton
Beneficiaries: 31 tenants, their families, friends, and local neighbours.
Aim:
Following the pandemic, tenants at Alexander Briant Court were encouraged to socialise more. As more people began using the communal garden, the need for shaded and weather-protected spaces grew. The Kindness Fund helped the scheme invest in a solid gazebo, providing a comfortable outdoor space for daily use and community events.
Impact:
Residents now have a year-round outdoor space, allowing them to connect with each other regardless of the weather. The new gazebo has transformed the garden into a hub for social gatherings, reducing isolation and strengthening community bonds.
Kindness Fund Contribution: £1,000
Alice Ingham Gardening Club
Rochdale
Beneficiaries: Tenants, visitors, and carers.
Aim:
Alice Ingham Court’s garden is a safe and welcoming space for tenants to relax and socialise. However, with limited funds, maintaining and improving the garden became difficult. The Kindness Fund provided support to purchase essential gardening equipment, compost, and seating.
Impact:
The improved garden has become a lifeline for vulnerable tenants, particularly those who previously felt isolated. With encouragement from staff and fellow tenants, new residents are actively engaging in gardening, finding a sense of purpose and belonging.
Kindness Fund Contribution: £583
Black Creative Trailblazers 2024
Manchester & Salford
Beneficiaries: Black creatives, local community members, elderly and young people.
Aim:
The Black Creative Trailblazers programme provides emerging Black artists with tools, opportunities, and platforms to succeed in the creative industry. The initiative features a showcase during Black History Month, engaging over 600 attendees with live performances, poetry, and interactive art. The project also includes a community painting workshop for 120 participants, promoting creativity and mental well-being.
Impact:
This initiative has provided over 100 Black creatives with exposure and opportunities to build their careers. The community workshop fostered connections between generations, helping young people express themselves through art.
Kindness Fund Contribution: £1,000
