Deadline looms for voluntary fund grants

Grassroots Grants is aimed at helping small voluntary and community organisations provide much needed help in their communities plus reach out to the most vulnerable people.

Small and local community groups with annual incomes below 30,000 can apply for grants of between 250 and 5,000. Since September 2008, 113 community projects in Hull have shared more than 300,000 through the scheme.

But the three-year programme is coming to an end and will close to new applications on August 6. Community and voluntary groups are urged to get their applications submitted as soon as possible.

Jayne Robinson, grants officer at Hull Community and Voluntary Services, which hands out the grants, said: "Grassroots Grants have helped communities to thrive and deal with the individual challenges they face.

"Groups wishing to apply for a Grassroots Grant should contact me to check their eligibility before applying for a grant".

One of those to have benefited is Hull Samba School which lets the local community learn to play the drums and percussion instruments, plus build community spirit and promote good health and well-being.

Secretary Harriet Jones said: "Without the grant we would have struggled to keep going. Our members value coming to the classes for friendship as well as having the chance to learn something new. Hull CVS have been a great source of support."

Application forms and advice on applying for a Grassroots Grants can be downloaded from the Hull CVS website at http://hullcvs.co.uk/grants.asp or by contacting Jayne Robinson on 01482 595543.