Bristol rugby star Ellis Genge's new foundation The Genge Fund to donate £22,000 to local youth projects

The donations were raised following a gala dinner held after The Genge Fund was launched by the England and Bristol Bears rugby player at the end of last year.

£4,000 will be donated to five individual organisations, with the remaining funds to be used towards community activities and fundraisers.

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The following organisations have received funding:

• Bristol Bears Foundation: Supporting the ‘Bright Sparks’ programme, which uses rugby to enhance education, mental health, and overall wellbeing for young people.
• Grassroots Communities: Expanding their multi-sport club for 8–12-year-olds in Hartcliffe and Withywood and relaunching senior sessions for 13–16-year-olds, with a focus on girls and young people at risk of anti-social behaviour.
• Lansdowne School: Funding outdoor learning opportunities and sporting experiences for low-income pupils.
• Youth Moves: Training 15 young people as peer mentors to lead programmes promoting positive physical and mental health activities.
• Young Bristol: Launching an ‘Outdoor Activity Taster Programme’ to provide land and water-based sports opportunities for young people from low-income backgrounds.

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Genge, who is originally from Knowle West in Bristol, said: "We are incredibly proud to have raised £22,000 for these fantastic organisations.

"These donations will make a real difference in the lives of young people in Bristol, providing them with opportunities to thrive through sport, education, and wellbeing initiatives.

“The Genge Fund is committed to supporting the next generation, and we believe that sport is a powerful tool for positive change."