29th June 2026
As we head into the second half of the year, it feels like the perfect time to pause and celebrate some of the local organisations making such a meaningful difference across Greater Manchester and Cheshire.
Every round of Community Stars introduces us to groups who give their time, care and energy to the people around them - often quietly, consistently and with incredible heart. Here are some of the local charities and community organisations we’ve been proud to support.
Piper Hill is a specialist school based in Wythenshawe, supporting young people aged 11-19 with a wide range of additional needs. For many families, the school is more than a place of learning - it is a steady source of care, reassurance and practical support during challenging times.
What really stood out about Piper Hill was the compassion behind everything they do. Their team understands that when families are facing financial pressure, even the basics can feel difficult to manage. Their £750 Community Stars award is being used to provide food parcels for families who need them most, helping to ease that pressure and bring a little more comfort and certainty into their week.
Mustard Tree, based in Ancoats, is known across Manchester for its life-changing work with people experiencing homelessness and poverty. For the people they support, their work can be the start of something much more hopeful - a chance to move beyond crisis and begin rebuilding life with stability, dignity and confidence.
At the heart of Mustard Tree’s work is a belief in lasting change, not quick fixes. Their team understands that safe housing can be a vital first step towards a more secure future. Their £650 Community Stars award will help pay the deposit on a rented flat for a homeless family, giving them immediate access to safe, stable accommodation and a place to begin moving forward.
Stretford Community Playgroup, run entirely by volunteers, is a lifeline for local families on low incomes. With sessions costing just £3 per family, it offers an affordable space for children to play and parents to connect.
Their inclusive environment supports some of the most vulnerable families during the most challenging early‑parenthood years. Their £550 award is helping them replace worn‑out toys and equipment, so the space remains safe, stimulating and accessible.
The Container is a new youth initiative offering a “third space” for young people aged 11–18 - somewhere that isn’t school and isn’t home, but feels safe, positive and theirs.
What’s great about The Container is their ambition to build something meaningful from scratch. Their volunteers are determined to create a trusted, long‑term space where young people feel supported and empowered. They received £400, which is being used for volunteer training to help the team develop the skills and confidence needed to support young people effectively.
That’s what Community Stars is all about - recognising and supporting the local work that brings people together, offers a helping hand and strengthens community life. This is just a handful of the non-profits we’ve supported so far this year, and we’re always looking for more groups to support. If you know, or are part of, an organisation making a difference in communities across Greater Manchester and Cheshire, we’d love to hear from you. Applications for our next round of Community Stars funding are now open.