Leading figures have joined forces to launch a new initiative called the Manx Solidarity Fund.
Individuals from business and civic communities have linked up in response to the financial and human challenges arising from the Covid-19 pandemic.
The plan is for the Manx Solidarity Fund, an island-registered charitable trust, to generate donations to allocate to those individuals, businesses and organisations that the fund’s trustees identify as being most in need, and which will serve as a community back-stop to help support the island’s economy as a whole.
Lieutenant Governor Sir Richard Gozney has agreed to be patron.
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Spokesman, businessman Paul Hotchkiss said: ’The global crisis brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic presents the most serious challenge to our economy, our way of life and our nation’s health since the Second World War.
’With Manx roots and having been part of the Isle of Man’s business community for 35 years, I am acutely aware of the close networks and expertise within this community that have enabled us to become a successful, respected economy.
’The Manx Solidarity Fund is making full use of these attributes and the team behind it includes highly-respected figures from across our community.
’This demonstrates the community-wide commitment to helping our island’s businesses, charities and individuals at this time of great need.’
The initiatives have also been backed by TT rider and founder and chief executive of Coffee Mann, Conor Cummins.
Conor said: ’Many people and organisations are now facing social and financial hardship.’
The new group has also joined forces with the Isle of Man Coronavirus Community Support (IOMCCS) team which is rebranding to Helpout.im and provides a database of individuals and organisations willing to donate their time and skills to help those most in need.
Those wishing to register their interest to receive assistance can do so via www.manxsolidarityfund.com
Any business or individual keen to pledge funds through the Manx Solidarity Fund website can do so now at www.manxsolidarityfund.com/donate