Westminster Almshouses Foundation

The Westminster Almshouses Foundation is a historic London charity with roots tracing back to 1656, when Reverend James Palmer established the first almshouse for Westminster's poor and elderly. Modernized under a 2007 Charity Commission Scheme (updated 2024), it provides secure, affordable sheltered housing—41 self-contained flats at Palmers House, Rochester Row—for people aged 60+ with strong Westminster ties, prioritizing those on low or modest incomes facing housing needs. Its ethos embodies Christian philanthropy, compassion, dignity, community, and independence, balancing long-term asset stewardship with targeted hardship relief through endowments and investments.

The Foundation primarily manages almshouses but also funds small hardship grants for Westminster residents (e.g., essential items, heating, repairs, mobility aids) and modest awards to local charities supporting older or vulnerable people, such as crisis support, wellbeing services, and community resilience projects. Grants emphasize practical aid for isolation, ill health, or financial distress, with a focus on elderly individuals and grassroots efforts rather than large-scale programs.

Eligible applicants are UK-registered charities and community groups operating exclusively in the City of Westminster, favoring small, local organizations without strict income limits. Individual grants require referrals from recognized agencies; direct applications are not accepted. Typical awards range from £100-£500 for individuals and £500-£2,000 for organizations. Applications are unsolicited via email to grants@westminsteralmshouses.com for a form, processed on a rolling basis with decisions within 10 working days.

Distinctively localist and enduring, it eschews national scope, capital projects, unrestricted funding, or non-Westminster work, perpetuating centuries-old traditions through personal, sustainable support for the area's older citizens.