A new way of funding grassroots projects has launched in York – and it’s putting power directly into the hands of local people.
This month, at a sold-out community dinner called STEW, York residents came together not just to eat, but to decide where funding should go, with the grassroots group Make Space York receiving the largest share of the night’s prize pot.
York Together held this event at Bluebird Bakery in Acomb on 2nd April, driven by a vision of creating a fairer, more just York. Attendees gathered to share a warming stew and meet new people. After hearing quickfire pitches from three local grassroots groups, they voted for the cause that resonated most.
£547 was raised through ticket sales and went directly in to the prize pot to be shared between the three groups. Stubborn Roots and Ageing Without Children, received £75 each, while Make Space York walked away with £397.
Abigail Gaines from Make Space York, said:
“I came away from STEW with a full heart. This was a wonderful community event with a supportive atmosphere. Attendees wrote encouraging notes on little cards to be given to each pitcher at the end of the night, these appreciation cards were like little hugs. York had so many amazing grassroots initiatives, good people doing good things, and to hear about some of them at this event was fantastic.”
STEW creators and hosts, York Together, were thrilled with how the event played out.
Anjelica Finnegan, Development Lead for York Together, said:
“We have been genuinely moved by the warmth and encouragement in the room on the night. The atmosphere was full of care and solidarity, and we want to thank everyone who came to cheer our pitchers on and make them feel seen, supported, and appreciated.
It’s rare to find a space where people come together like this: to eat, to listen, and to collectively decide what kind of future they want for their city – so we’re hoping we can host more STEW events in the future!”
The STEW format is simple but powerful: it puts decision-making power directly into the hands of local people and makes a difference within the community.
Find out more about this project and York Together’s work here.