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September 30, 2026
Getlink Customs Services (formerly Channel Ports) provides comprehensive customs solutions that support seamless logistics across the UK and Europe. Established in 2019, the Getlink Customs Services Charitable Fund was created from the company's commitment to supporting local communities. Working in partnership with Kent Community Foundation, the Fund invests in grassroots organisations across Kent and Medway, helping local people access vital services, reduce isolation, improve wellbeing and build stronger, more resilient communities.
Here are just some of the organisations they have supported:
SATEDA Ltd provide specialist support for women and children across Kent. A £3,800 grant though Getlink Customs Services Charitable Fund is helping to run Heather House in Sittingbourne, a community hub offering a drop-in service, counselling, and a clothes bank for those affected by domestic abuse.
Marylka Gowlland from SATEDA said:
“This grant from the Getlink Customs Services Charitable Fund supports the running cost of our community Hub, a hugely valuable safe space for women and children experiencing domestic abuse. We are so grateful for the support from the Fund, which helps women and children to find safety, build a community, and rebuild their lives after abuse.”
Refocus Project Ltd provide early intervention and crime prevention programmes. Refocus received a £1,473 grant to deliver its “Energise” programme in Gravesham, offering after-school and holiday activities for at-risk children aged 6–14.
Lois Ball from Refocus Project said:
“We are really thrilled to receive this money which enables us to run enriching activities for our children and families in Dartford and Gravesend. Our holiday clubs will run in July and August, offering children a range of crafting, cooking and sporting activities including inflatable fun and gaming quests. Last year, one child told us, 'Thank you! I love holiday club, please do it again next year!' Thank you for enabling us to fulfil her wish.”
Ashford and Tenterden Umbrella work to improve wellbeing and reduce isolation by providing accessible community support for people who are vulnerable, experiencing poor mental health or struggling with loneliness. A £6,000 grant helped the charity continue delivering over 35 hours of free activities each month, including its Chatty Café, art classes, social outings and transport service, while also providing affordable refreshments and food support for those facing financial hardship.
Harmony Maidstone is a community theatre and creative arts charity that provides inclusive performance-based activities for disadvantaged children, young people and adults, with a particular focus on those experiencing mental health challenges or social isolation. A grant of £1,925 enabled the charity to deliver a free seven-week Harmonix music project for 16 young people in Maidstone, providing a safe and supportive space to develop music production, songwriting and performance skills alongside professional music mentors.
Thomas Mercuri, Managing Director of Getlink Customs Services UK, said:
“We are delighted to support Kent Community Foundation. The £150,000 awarded to local causes since 2019 has made a meaningful difference to communities across Kent and Medway, empowering grassroots organisations to deliver vital services where they are needed most. We are proud to contribute to such a positive and lasting impact on our local communities.”
Catherine Glover, Chief Executive of Kent Community Foundation, said:
“Partnerships like this are so important in helping funding reach the communities that need it most. Getlink Customs Services’ ongoing commitment is making a real difference to grassroots organisations and the people they support across Kent and Medway.”
To contact Kent Community Foundation about funding for charities and community groups, or to discuss setting up a philanthropic fund, please email hello@kentcf.org.uk.