This Current Issues piece describes how short-term funding in response to public health emergencies can be put to best use. This is a current issue as many public health agencies are having to respond to these types of funding calls as a consequence of the rising COVID-related health inequalities. We describe how one local authority in the UK commissioned established organisations to address areas of need indicated by community groups. The resulting projects directed support towards people who were likely to experience mental ill-health using an advocacy-based approach. We describe the outcomes for people who used the services as well as giving some ‘top tips’ for ensuring such short-term funding is successful for the people who most benefit.