A funeral home has helped to fund initiatives in the community.

The donations, which were given by Co-Op Halesworth Funeralcare, and incorporating Woolnough's, have helped fund initiatives including the restoration of a community garden and various social events for Halesworth locals.

The donations given totalled £950.

One contribution was used to organise a shared meal at St Mary’s Church.

Beccles & Bungay Journal: 'The Feast of Stephen' saw more than 50 people turn up for the three course meal 'The Feast of Stephen' saw more than 50 people turn up for the three course meal (Image: Co-op Halesworth Funeralcare)

Named 'The Feast of Stephen', it saw more than 50 people attend on December 27 for a special three-course meal.

The event aimed to support those facing grief and loneliness during the holiday period.

Among those in attendance were a number of the Halesworth volunteers, including a support group who in turn received £450 from the Co-op Community Fund.

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This will be used to host six tea parties, providing a social outlet to the elderly and help in combating loneliness.

Emma Healy, director at the Halesworth Volunteers, said: "We are so grateful for the support from Co-op Funeralcare Halesworth, which has allowed us to provide places for older people to socialise, creating a great sense of community and togetherness.

“The Feast of Stephen was a lovely opportunity to get local people together, and seeing so many of the community under one roof was a great way to end 2023.”

Beccles & Bungay Journal: The Men's Shed which allows members access to tools and resources to complete DIY projects also got a donation The Men's Shed which allows members access to tools and resources to complete DIY projects also got a donation (Image: Co-op Halesworth Funeralcare)

The Halesworth Men’s Shed was given a cheque for £250 from the Co-op Community Fund on January 9.

The money will be spent on materials and tools to create furniture for a newly-acquired community garden.

Natalie Townley, funeral director at Co-op Funeralcare Halesworth, said: “Working in funeralcare, we understand just how difficult it can be for those dealing with grief and loneliness, so to be able to support some fantastic local causes and volunteers who work hard to help provide support and social opportunities is greatly rewarding."