The Janet Hartley Fund

Overview

Grants to organisations delivering projects that benefit communities within the towns and surrounding areas of Appleby, Brough, Kendal, Kirkby Stephen, Penrith, Sedbergh, and Tebay. Donor Out of Eden Limited Background Janet Hartley founded the Kirkby Stephen-based company Out of Eden in 1993 with her husband Ian. For over 30 years her passion was leading her team, with Out of Eden becoming the town’s biggest employer. Janet was a committed Christian so the company has always tithed its profits, giving 10% to charity every year. This Fund was created for Out of Eden in 2016 and renamed The Janet Hartley Fund in 2025. Janet grew up on a farm in the highlands of Kenya, where she got her work ethic and sense of personal responsibility. She learned from her father’s relationship with their farmworkers the importance of treating people fairly and valuing those with the least rather than those with the most, which was reinforced by her faith. Janet believed in community service and in supporting organisations that strengthened local society. She chaired the governors at Kirkby Stephen Grammar School, volunteered with various charities and committees, including the Appleby Heritage Centre and the Cumbria Community Foundation, and was asked to be High Sheriff of Cumbria but died before she could carry out the role. The aim of this fund is to continue to support local charities and organisations that strengthen local communities and help those in need, as Janet did. Who can apply? • charitable, not-for-profit organisations Examples of projects supported: • family support worker in Eden • youth mentoring and skills development programmes • activities for rurally isolated older people • vocational training and education for people with disabilities What the fund will not support in addition to our normal exclusions: • individuals How much can you apply for? Grants will normally be up to £5,000 over one year. How to apply? • All applications are now made through our online application portal • Read our step‑by‑step portal help guide here If you would like further information about this fund please contact: Tracy Cheesbrough on 01900 512395 or email tracy@cumbriafoundation.org